Riara University issues statement after viral video of dramatic off-campus assault

In a statement on Friday, October 2, the university said the footage had drawn attention to the institution after reports emerged that some of the individuals shown could be students at the university. 

"It has come to our attention that some of the individuals depicted in the video are reportedly students at Riara University," the statement read.

Riara  University said it did not condone violence or any form of conduct that could undermine the safety and dignity of others.

"Riara University unequivocally condemns violence, intimidation, bullying, harassment or misconduct in any form," the statement added.

According to the university, the reported incident was alleged to have occurred away from its premises. 

However, it said conduct involving its students could still have implications under the institution's rules and values.

"While the alleged event occurred off-campus, such behaviour directly contradicts our institutional values and our code of conduct for students," the statement further read.

Riara University said its leadership had begun reviewing the matter under the applicable student disciplinary framework.

"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," the statement concluded.

The university's response came after Kenyans online called for action against the students involved in the bullying of Jahenda, a well-known social media personality. 

The incident reportedly took place in a club restroom, where Jahenda was allegedly surrounded and bullied by a group of girls who can be seen recording the humiliating harassment and laughing. 

One girl in burgundy hair, who has now been identified as Vania, is seen pushing Jahenda around, forcefully grabbing her by the throat and using threatening language.

"Get back here! Run! Move, before I kill this b*tch, move!" she is heard saying.

As her victim hesitates, she's boxed into a corner and yelled at menancingly: "I told you to run! move move jog... Jogging over here. Jog on the fu**ing spot!"

The backlash intensified as many social media users began to demand accountability, urging Riara University to investigate the matter and consider suspending the students involved pending any disciplinary action. 

The hashtag #justiceforjahenda also quickly began trending, reflecting widespread support for Jahenda and condemnation of the bullying behavior.