Riara University has responded to a video circulating on social media showing several female individuals confronting and assaulting another female in what appears to be a public bathroom.
The university confirmed on October 3 that some of the individuals shown in the video are reportedly Riara University students.
In a statement, the institution condemned violence, intimidation, bullying, harassment, and misconduct in any form, noting that the conduct shown in the video goes against its institutional values and Student Code of Conduct.
Although the incident occurred off-campus, Riara University said its leadership has initiated an internal review in accordance with its Student Code of Conduct and institutional policies.
The university also stated that it remains committed to cooperating with investigative authorities.
“The University leadership has initiated an internal review of the matter in accordance with our Student Code of Conduct and institutional policies, and we are committed to cooperation with investigative authorities,” part of the statement read.
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RGC Buruburu Church Responds
Redeemed Gospel Church (RGC) Buruburu Church also responded to the Riara University bullying video, saying it was saddened to learn that one of the young people involved in the incident fellowships at the church on October 3.
The church noted it was deeply disturbed by what was portrayed in the video and condemned bullying, humiliation, intimidation, harassment, violence, and any conduct intended to demean, threaten, or harm another person.
RGC Buru Buru expressed concern and compassion for Jahenda, whom they identified as the victim, and everyone affected by the incident.
The church further acknowledged that one of the young people involved was part of its fellowship but clarified that an individual’s actions cannot be attributed to the church.
At the same time, it explained that church affiliation should not be used to excuse, minimize, or shield anyone from accountability for their conduct.
“Our affiliation with the church does not place anyone above the principles of responsibility, respect, and accountability,” the church stated.
What the Video Shows
The video shows several women gathered around a fellow woman inside a public bathroom, confronting her.
Footage shows an altercation between the group and a lady identified as Jahenda, who is being forced to run and jog on the spot while being cornered in the bathroom.
At a point during the confrontation the Jahenda is heard calling to one of the ladies by the name Vania, asking her to step aside so she can run as instructed by Nicole.
Footage also shows one lady who was recording turning to face the camera while laughing during the incident.
One of the Ladies Issues an Apology
Following the surfacing of the video, social media users have taken to the hashtag # JusticeForJahenda, calling for the accountability of those involved.
One of the women shown in the video has since apologized to Jahenda and taken responsibility for her involvement in the incident.
In the apology, she acknowledged that her actions were wrong, hurtful, and unacceptable.
“I want to sincerely apologize for my involvement in bullying Jahenda. What I did was wrong, hurtful and completely unacceptable, and I take full responsibility for my actions. I have had time to reflect on what happened, and I genuinely regret the pain and embarrassment I caused her,” part of her apology read.
The woman also clarified that she was not issuing the apology to seek sympathy or avoid consequences.
She described the conduct as immature and pledged to learn from the incident and change her behavior.
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Public Reactions to Riara University Response
The Riara University statement has gotten strong reactions on social media, with users particularly questioning the institution’s use of the word “alleged.”
Some have also questioned the timing of the statement, criticizing the university’s response as inadequate.
Others called for those involved to be held accountable, arguing the incident is not alleged because the circulating video is proof.
In addition, some threatened to camp at the entrance of Riara University while the university reviews and investigates the matter to ensure justice is served.
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