The Bayelsa State Gender Response Initiative Team (GRIT) has strongly condemned the recent incident of bullying and assault against a female student, identified as Nancy, at the Federal University Otuoke.
The incident, captured in a viral video circulating on social media, showed some female students allegedly assaulting their colleague. GRIT described the act as unacceptable, stressing that bullying, harassment, and intimidation have far-reaching negative effects on victims, particularly students, who should feel safe within academic environments.
Speaking on the matter, the Chairman of GRIT, Barr. Diseye Egberipou, stated that such behavior undermines the principles of respect, dignity, and inclusivity in society. He added that bullying fosters fear, anxiety, and insecurity, which can severely affect academic performance, mental health, and the general well-being of those targeted.
Egberipou further emphasized that the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024 prohibits acts that expose individuals to public ridicule and invasion of privacy. He noted that the law promotes kindness, empathy, and mutual respect in both physical and digital spaces.
The GRIT chairman commended the Nigeria Police Force for its efforts so far in tracking the alleged perpetrators, who are currently at large. He urged the police to intensify investigations and ensure that the suspects are apprehended and prosecuted without delay.
He reiterated that the team has been working closely with law enforcement agencies, students, and concerned individuals to ensure that justice is served.
Egberipou also drew attention to the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, 2021, which empowers GRIT to uphold human dignity and enforce penalties against individuals who take laws into their own hands.
It was further disclosed that Nancy’s phone was damaged during the altercation, making it difficult to reach her. Efforts to contact her through close relations have so far yielded little results.
Despite this setback, GRIT assured members of the public and concerned stakeholders that the perpetrators will be held accountable once investigations are concluded.
