UniNiger Suspends School Security Official After Assaulting, Victimising Female Student

The University on the Niger, Umunya (UNINIGER), has suspended a security officer involved in a viral video circulating on social media involving a female student of the institution who was assaulted and forcefully removed from campus. This was confirmed in a public statement issued by the university on July 19, which promised a full investigation into the matter.

The suspension followed widespread outrage on social media after an anonymous post accused the officer of physically assaulting the student, who was identified only as Alaka. He was captured in the video beating her, dragging her to the ground, and forcing her off the university premises like a criminal.

Background: Blackmail and Victim-Blaming

The incident reportedly began when a female student reported to the school authorities that she was being blackmailed by a male student who possessed explicit content of her. According to her account, the male student had been emotionally and financially manipulating her before eventually leaking the content to others within the university.

Instead of receiving support, the student was reportedly suspended for one year, while the accused male student faced no disciplinary action. The university has yet to confirm or deny this part of the allegation.

Following her suspension, she requested to leave the school premises the following day for some unknown reasons; however, instead of compassion, she was allegedly assaulted and forcefully removed by security officers, leading to public outcry and calls for justice.

University Management Responds

In the statement, UniNiger acknowledged the circulating video and described the officer’s actions as being “in direct conflict with the school’s core values of Christ.”

“The conduct seen in the video does not reflect the ethos of our institution and is in direct conflict with our core values of Christ-like character, ethical conduct, and servant leadership,” the university said.

According to the statement, the University Disciplinary Committee has been activated to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, and the security personnel involved have been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.

The institution reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward abuse or misconduct by students or staff.

“We remain resolute in our determination to learn, improve, and protect the dignity of all members of our beloved institution,” the statement concluded.

Public Reaction and Next Steps

The university’s action comes amid growing calls for justice, accountability, and a review of how such cases are handled. While some have welcomed the suspension as a positive step, many are demanding further transparency, especially regarding the alleged blackmail and the suspension of the female student.

This further spotlights the growing pandemic of victim blaming and shaming, especially on issues concerning sexual abuse, exploitation or harassment. Blaming Victims instead of supporting them adds to their trauma and discourages other victims from speaking up.

Students, parents, and human rights groups are urging the institution to ensure that justice is served fairly for all parties involved — and that the safety, dignity, and rights of victims are prioritised moving forward.

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Kangmwa Gofwen

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