NEKEDE, Nigeria – The Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, Imo State, has suspended a facilitator, Mr. Okoroafor Ifeanyichukwu, following a viral video showing him assaulting a male student.
The suspension, announced in a letter dated Friday, March 14, 2025, is pending the outcome of an investigation into the incident.
The letter, signed by the Director of the Technical and Entrepreneurship Development Centre (TEDC), Dr. Okoye P.C., stated, “You are hereby suspended from duty as a facilitator in the Technical and Entrepreneurship Development Centre pending the outcome of investigation into the incident that occurred yesterday 13th March, 2025 at the site of your entrepreneurship training.”
The suspension notice was copied to the Rector, Dean of Student Affairs, and the Student Union Government of the institution.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday, March 13, 2025, was captured in a video that showed Okoroafor slapping the student, Chidera, and kicking him, causing him to fall heavily onto a cemented walkway.
The student’s phone was also damaged during the altercation. The video sparked widespread outrage and condemnation on social media.
In response to the backlash, Okoroafor sent an apology message to Chidera, expressing remorse for his actions.
“Dear Chidera, I am writing to offer my sincerest apologies for my behavior towards you. I am deeply sorry for the way I treated you, and I realize that my actions were unacceptable and hurtful. As your teacher, I should have provided a safe and supportive learning environment, but instead, I bullied and intimidated you,” the apology read.
Okoroafor acknowledged the harm caused by his actions and pledged to change his behavior.
“My behavior was not only unprofessional, but it also caused you harm and distress. I want you to know that I take full responsibility for my actions, and I am truly sorry for the pain and suffering I caused you,” he wrote.
He also offered to meet with Chidera to discuss how he could make amends.
“If you are willing, I would like to meet with you to discuss how I can make amends and support you in any way possible. Please let me know if this is something you would be open to, and we can arrange a time and place that works for you.”
The suspension and apology come as the institution seeks to address the incident and uphold its commitment to providing a safe and conducive learning environment for students.
