A night out has turned into a national outrage after a video appearing to show a young woman being cornered, humiliated and physically confronted by a group of women inside a club washroom went viral , and the question now facing the university linked to some of those involved is whether an apology is enough.
The video, which began circulating widely on social media on Friday, shows a young woman identified online as Jahenda surrounded by several women inside what appears to be a club restroom. One woman is seen pushing and grabbing her around the neck while issuing threats, as others appear to record the confrontation and laugh. The full circumstances that led to the confrontation have not been independently established.
The footage sparked widespread outrage, with Kenyans calling for accountability and the involvement of authorities. The online campaign #JusticeForJahenda has since gained traction as questions continue to be raised over what happened before the video was recorded and what action should follow.
The incident has also drawn the attention of Riara University after reports linked some of the women in the video to the institution.
In a statement issued , the university said it had become aware that some of the individuals depicted were reportedly its students. It condemned violence, intimidation, bullying, harassment and misconduct, saying such behaviour goes against its institutional values and Student Code of Conduct.
Although the incident reportedly occurred off campus, Riara University said it had initiated an internal review under its student disciplinary framework and would cooperate with investigative authorities. The university has not, however, announced any disciplinary action against the individuals as the review continues.
The controversy has taken another turn after Redeemed Gospel Church Buruburu said one of the young people linked to the incident is associated with its congregation. The church condemned the conduct and stressed that affiliation with the church cannot be used to excuse, minimise or shield anyone from accountability. It also expressed concern for Jahenda and called for healing and responsibility.
Meanwhile, two of the ladies featured in the video have reportedly apologised publicly. One, identified in reports as Vanayah, said she was disappointed in herself, accepted responsibility for her actions and acknowledged that the situation should have been handled differently. The apologies, however, have not ended calls for formal accountability.
