The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, UNIZIK, has suspended Prof. Ifeanyi Sunny Odinye of the Department of Chinese Studies for three months with half salary, over alleged mishandling of an examination misconduct case.
The suspension, approved by Vice Chancellor Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie on the recommendation of a 6-man Special Investigative Panel, takes effect immediately. The panel submitted its preliminary report on Friday, August 21, 2026.
In its preliminary findings on two of five issues, the panel indicted Prof. Odinye for violating Sections 5.8.3 and 5.8.1(iv) of the university’s General and Academic Regulations, GAR.
The panel said the lecturer failed to record and submit a report on the alleged exam misconduct involving Chikamso Favour Okechukwu.
It also accused him of returning the student’s phone, which was recovered during the exam, to her on the same day — contrary to university regulations.
The VC directed that the student, Chikamso Favour Okechukwu, be referred to the Students’ Examination Misconduct Committee for appropriate action.
To conclude its work, the Vice Chancellor has extended the mandate of the investigative panel by two weeks.
Other outstanding issues for determination include:
Whether there was sexual harassment,
identities of persons involved in the alleged assault on Prof. Odinye and
whether there was any incident of kidnapping in the matter
The panel is chaired by Prof. Emmanuel Obidimma, Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies.
The University which made this known on Monday in a statement signed by Comrade Aloysius Emeka Attah, Director of Information and Public Relations, the VC said it’s administration remains committed to staff and student welfare.
It added that the administration has zero tolerance for unethical practices while upholding the principles of transparency and fair hearing,” the statement read.
According to the statement, the committee is expected to submit its final findings and recommendations to the VC, after which further action, including possible criminal prosecution, may be taken.
