In response to accusations of sexual harassment levied against a female student, the Abia State University, Uturu, has suspended Dr. Udochukwu Ndukwe, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication, for a period of three months.
A letter dated July 30, 2024, and signed by the school’s registrar, Dr. Acho Elendu, indicated that Ndukwe will undergo investigation and face a reduction in pay as per the University Conditions of Service until the investigation is concluded by the appointed panel.
The letter characterized the lecturer’s behavior as “embarrassing” and revealed previous accusations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and extortion towards female students within the department.
A viral video circulating on social media depicted Ndukwe being interrogated while on his knees by multiple individuals in a room.
Allegedly, Ndukwe was set up by a final-year female student whom he had been accused of repeatedly harassing and intimidating.
Investigations from PUNCH Metro unveiled that to expose the lecturer’s predatory actions, a female student collaborated with others to catch him inappropriately at a well-known hotel in Umuahia, resulting in his plea for discretion.
Notably, the viral video showed the lecturer with bloodied lips and visible bruises.
A panel has been established, per the letter, to further scrutinize the suspended lecturer until the investigation is completed.
The letter stated, “Following the distressing online video involving you, causing embarrassment to Abia State University, your immediate suspension from duty for three months with reduced pay has been approved. You are to hand over any university belongings to your Department Head.”
Efforts made by PUNCH Metro to obtain a response from the university registrar regarding the suspension were unsuccessful as of the time of reporting, with unanswered calls and messages.