The UNIZIK Incident and the Need for Balanced Justice: Protecting Both Genders

By Abayomi Ayepola

A Shocking Altercation at UNIZIK

In February 2025, a troubling incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, shed light on the complexities of gender dynamics in conflict situations. A lecturer, Dr. Chukwudi Okoye, was physically assaulted by a student, Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious, after he allegedly interrupted her TikTok recording. She reportedly responded by biting him multiple times on his wrist and arm. Following an investigation, the university expelled Ms. Precious for assaulting the lecturer, making it clear that violence against staff would not be tolerated (Punch).

While justice was served in this case, it highlights a broader issue: the frequent portrayal of males as aggressors in gender-related conflicts, even when evidence suggests otherwise. This case, alongside others, underscores the need to protect men from false accusations and unwarranted societal biases.

Why Men Also Need Protection from False Allegations

In many instances, when conflicts arise between men and women, societal narratives often lean toward assuming the man is at fault. This predisposition has led to instances where men suffer severe consequences for actions they did not commit. While women’s safety and rights are rightfully championed, there is an urgent need to ensure that justice is not gender-biased.

Several notable cases highlight how men have been falsely accused or unfairly vilified in disputes, leading to personal, professional, and legal ramifications.

1. The Duke Lacrosse Case (2006, USA)
   Three Duke University lacrosse players were accused of sexual assault by a woman hired as an exotic dancer at a party. The accusations led to their suspension and widespread condemnation. However, investigations later revealed that the accuser had fabricated the allegations. Despite their eventual exoneration, their reputations and lives were deeply affected (New York Times).
2. The Brian Banks Case (2002, USA)
   Brian Banks, a high school football player with a promising future, was falsely accused of rape by a classmate. Fearing a long sentence, he took a plea deal and was imprisoned for five years. Years later, the accuser admitted she had lied. Though Banks was eventually exonerated, the damage to his career was irreparable (CNN).
3. Auchi Polytechnic Lecturer Case (2018, Nigeria)
   A lecturer at Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State was falsely accused of sexual harassment by a female student. An investigation revealed that the accusation was a form of retaliation because the lecturer had failed the student in an exam. Though he was cleared, his professional and personal life suffered significantly (Vanguard).

These cases illustrate why men also require legal and institutional protection against false accusations. The assumption that men are always the aggressors can lead to wrongful punishments and irreparable reputational harm.

The Role of Cameras and Technology in Ensuring Justice

One of the most effective ways to prevent false accusations is through the use of surveillance technology. Cameras, social media, and digital recordings have played an instrumental role in either proving innocence or ensuring justice.

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Body Cameras in Law Enforcement and Universities
Some institutions and workplaces now encourage the use of body cameras or CCTV to provide an unbiased record of interactions. If widely implemented in educational institutions, such measures could protect both students and staff from false accusations or unwarranted violence.

Social Media as a Double-Edged Sword

Social media has been a tool for both exposing genuine misconduct and fueling false narratives. In the UNIZIK case, had the student taken to social media first with a one-sided claim, public opinion might have shifted against the lecturer before facts emerged. While social media can help victims seek justice, it must not be used as a tool for trial by public opinion without verifiable evidence.

The Need for Independent Review Panels
Schools, workplaces, and legal institutions must establish neutral review panels that do not rush to judgment based on gender biases. Investigations should be conducted thoroughly, with all evidence considered before disciplinary or legal actions are taken.

Challenging the “Men Are Always the Aggressors” Narrative

The notion that men are always the aggressors in conflicts is an outdated stereotype that ignores reality. While there are indeed cases where men are guilty of misconduct, there are also many where they are victims. Studies have shown that men can also experience domestic violence, workplace harassment, and false accusations, yet societal structures often do not provide them with the same level of support as women.

A balanced justice system must:

Ensure equal legal protections for both men and women.

Encourage thorough investigations before passing judgment.

Educate society on the dangers of false accusations.

Use technology, including cameras and digital records, to provide objective evidence in disputes.

Justice Must Be Gender-Neutral

The UNIZIK incident serves as a reminder that men, like women, can be victims of violence, false accusations, and societal bias. While it is critical to continue protecting genuine victims of abuse, justice must always be based on facts rather than gendered assumptions.

Moving forward, institutions must adopt preventive measures such as surveillance technology, neutral investigative bodies, and educational reforms to ensure a more balanced and fair approach to justice. Men, just like women, deserve to have their voices heard and their innocence protected.

Abayomi Aiyepola writes from Abeokuta, Nigeria.