UNN dismisses attack rumour, bans motorcycles on campus

The Management of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, has assured staff, students and visitors of their safety following the circulation of a social media post alleging an impending terrorist attack and mass abduction on the Nsukka campus.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Public Relations Officer of the university, Inya Agha Egwu, the institution said it had no credible security intelligence or verified threat supporting the claims contained in the online post.

“The University wishes to state that there is no credible security intelligence or verified threat to the University of Nigeria that supports the claims contained in the post.

“The information being circulated is therefore unsubstantiated and should not be regarded as factual,” the statement read.

Despite the absence of any confirmed threat, the university said it had adopted additional precautionary measures to strengthen security on campus.

“These measures include the deployment of personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army at key entry points to complement the efforts of the University Security Unit.

“In addition, some access gates to the Nsukka campus will be temporarily closed to enhance the monitoring and regulation of movement into and out of the University,” the statement said.

The management further disclosed that motorcycle operations within the campus had been suspended with immediate effect.

“Consequently, no motorcycle will be permitted beyond the University gates except those belonging to authorised security personnel.

“Staff who commute to work on motorcycles are advised to park them at designated locations outside the campus perimeter before proceeding to their offices,” the statement added.

The university urged members of its community to remain calm and continue normal academic and administrative activities without fear.

It also appealed to parents, guardians, students, staff and the general public to refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing anxiety, panic or disruption.

While reiterating that there is no known threat to the institution, the management encouraged students and staff to remain vigilant and security-conscious, adding that any suspicious movement or activity should be promptly reported to the university’s security department or relevant security agencies.

It stressed that security remains a collective responsibility and called for the cooperation of all stakeholders in maintaining a peaceful and secure academic environment.

The management also cautioned against relying on anonymous social media posts and unverified online messages, particularly those containing sensational claims capable of generating fear and uncertainty.

It reaffirmed its commitment to providing a safe, secure and conducive environment for teaching, learning and research.