The recent violent confrontation between a young Nigerian female student Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious and her lecturer Dr Chukwudi Okoye should give us pause. The phrase “No gree for anyone,” popularised in 2024, seems to have taken deep root in the hearts of Gen Zs, manifesting in alarming ways.
The incident happened at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, where a student physically assaulted a lecturer over a TikTok video. This incident, abhorrent in its execution, demands condemnation in the strongest terms. To imagine a student lacking the character to engage in such a depraved act against a faculty member is truly disturbing.
While some might argue the lecturer should not have confiscated the phone, such a debate misses the crucial point. Even if we grant that the lecturer’s action was ill-advised, an alternative resolution was undeniably available. Resorting to physical violence, tearing down and apart another human being, represents the most barbaric approach to conflict resolution. As Nigeria grapples with this event both online and offline, fundamental questions arise: Can a lecturer at Harvard, or any reputable institution, demand to confiscate a student’s phone? Can a student casually record themselves in a hallway, potentially disrupting the academic environment? Would a student ever attempt to assault a lecturer in such a setting?
Nigeria often struggles with translating its laws from paper to practice, particularly in their interpretation and execution. As many Nigerians contemplate seeking opportunities abroad, it is essential that they, whether lecturers or students, familiarise themselves with the code of conduct of their intended destination. Ignorance of these regulations can lead to disastrous consequences, potentially ruining one’s future over avoidable misunderstandings.
In the specific case of the student involved in the assault, a thorough mental health evaluation seems warranted. However, the responsibility extends beyond the individual. The university, the Federal University Commission, and all relevant stakeholders must collaborate to develop clear guidelines that define the boundaries within which students should operate. Other universities should follow suit, proactively addressing this issue before it solidifies into a destructive culture. Teachers in Nigeria are already undercompensated, a lamentable reality in itself. To subject them to humiliation and physical violence from students adds insult to injury and further undermines the integrity of the educational system.
Understanding the emotional landscape of Gen Z is crucial in crafting effective and lasting solutions. According to research conducted by mediaculture.com, key psychological drivers for this generation include living an exciting life (35%), gaining recognition from peers (14%), and achieving social and professional status (12%). Since Gen Z is driven by the pursuit of adventure and the validation of their peer group, recognizing and addressing these emotional triggers is paramount to mitigating the risk of violent confrontations.
However, the core of the problem lies deeper than individual incidents or immediate triggers. Our society, inherently, excludes its young people. In Nigeria, the average age for university graduation falls between 22 and 24. Yet, it is exceedingly rare to see individuals within this age bracket participating in serious board meetings, policy formulation sessions, governance structures, or other positions of authority. When they do appear, it is often attributed to familial connections (“Godfathers”) rather than merit or demonstrable qualifications. This exclusion fosters a sense of disenfranchisement and resentment, creating fertile ground for frustration and ultimately, conflict.
Until we actively integrate younger generations into the progressive society we aspire to build, this disconnect will persist. We must proactively bridge the gap by including them in decision-making processes that directly affect their lives. Their voices must be heard, their perspectives valued, and their potential harnessed. Only then can we foster a sense of ownership, responsibility, and investment in the future of Nigeria. Ignoring this imperative will only perpetuate the cycle of conflict and prevent us from realising the true potential of our youth. The future of Nigeria hinges on our ability to empower and include its youngest citizen.
*Halima, a poet, wrote via: mailto:umuhfaisal@gmail.com @TheVanguard
