Nnamdi Azikiwe University lecturer murder: Police launches manhunt

The Anambra State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the individuals responsible for the tragic death of Dr. Fabian Osita, a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), in Awka.

The Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), reported that the incident occurred on Monday night near the high-tension area in Aroma, in Awka, the capital city.

Reportedly, the ugly incident occurred while Dr. Osita was returning home from his workplace.

According to an eyewitness, the alleged gunmen ambushed the lecturer in an apparent attempt to steal his car.

When he resisted their efforts, they shot him in the head, resulting in his immediate death.

The eyewitness reported that Osita was fatally shot near the high-tension area on Monday evening.

Another source also indicated that the victim was a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and a native of Nteje.

However, the Anambra State police spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident in a statement released on Tuesday.

Ikenga also confirmed that an investigation is underway to apprehend Dr. Osita’s killers.

The police expressed their condolences to the lecturer’s family and the university community while encouraging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.

Ikenga said: “the Command has commenced an investigation into the killing of Osita, who was shot and killed by unidentified gunmen at Aroma Junction on December 16, 2024, at 10:10 pm.

“The suspects also made off with his vehicle,” the SP said.

About UNIZIK

Nnamdi Azikiwe University, commonly known as UNIZIK, is a prominent federal university located in Nigeria.

It operates two main campuses in Anambra State.

The primary campus is in Awka, the state capital, while the secondary campus is in Nnewi.

Additionally, UNIZIK includes campuses in Agulu, situated in the Anaocha Local Government Area, and Ifite-Ogwuari in the Ayamelum Local Government Area.

The broad distribution allows the university to serve all three Senatorial Districts of Anambra State: Anambra Central, Anambra South, and Anambra North.

The university provides essential libraries and information services across its campuses, catering to students, academic staff, and non-academic personnel.

UNIZIK is one of the federal institutions accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

It honors the legacy of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria’s first president, by bearing his name.

The university boasts a diverse academic community, with approximately 34,000 students enrolled.

History of UNIZIK

UNIZIK emerged from the Anambra State University of Technology (ASUTECH), established on July 30, 1980.

ASUTECH began as a multi-campus institution with locations in Abakiliki, Enugu, Awka, and Nnewi.

In 1991, following the division of the old Anambra State into Anambra and Enugu States, the Awka and Nnewi campuses transitioned into Nnamdi Azikiwe University through the Anambra State Edict No. 5.

The federal government took control of the university in 1992 under Decree No. 34, marking its establishment as a federal university.

The transition ensured a more structured administration and funding, allowing UNIZIK to grow and develop its academic programs and facilities.

University Location

The main campus of Nnamdi Azikiwe University is strategically situated along the Onitsha-Enugu Expressway in Awka.

The Nnewi campus includes the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) and the Okofia area, while the Agulu campus houses the Faculty of Pharmacy.

The geographical layout enhances accessibility for students and staff across the region.

Library Facilities

The university’s main library, named the Professor Festus Aghagbo Nwako Library, is located on the Awka campus.

It serves as a vital resource hub, supporting students and faculty with extensive collections and internet access.

Each campus also has its own library, managed by professional librarians who ensure that academic resources are readily available.

The libraries facilitate various activities, including cultural festivals, and have seen significant upgrades.

In 2020, the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Charles Esimone, improved the internet bandwidth, enhancing digital access for students and staff at all campuses.

The Medical Library at the Nnewi campus supports the College of Health Sciences.

It comprises three interconnected libraries, serving medical students and healthcare professionals.

Initially established in 1986, the library has expanded significantly since its inception and now offers a robust collection of medical literature.

Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU)

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) represents all academic staff in Nigeria’s public universities.

The UNIZIK chapter of ASUU plays a crucial role in supporting students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

In the 2019/2020 academic year, ASUU awarded scholarships totaling N1.5 million to 30 indigent students, providing each with N50,000 to support their education.

The UNIZIK ASUU chapter was revitalized in 2012, with Professor Ike Odimegwu serving as its inaugural chairman.

Since then, it has focused on improving the welfare of both staff and students, advocating for better educational standards and support systems within the university.

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