University Of Nigeria Nsukka Deploys Soldiers, Bans Okada Cycles After Reported Planned Attack, Kidnapping
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has taken cautionary security steps even after it dismissed reports of an imminent terrorist attack and mass abduction of students in the institution.
UNN announced a ban on motorcycle operations as well as deployment of soldiers and police on campus to curtail possible infiltration by terrorists into the institution.
The UNN spokesperson, Agha Inya, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.
An online report recently claimed that some terrorists were planning to launch a deadly attack on the Nsukka campus of the UNN to abduct students.
Mr Inya said in the statement that there was “no credible security intelligence or verified threat” to the university that supported the claims contained in the post.
“The information being circulated is therefore unsubstantiated and should not be regarded as factual,” he said.
The UNN spokesperson said the university management had, however, taken additional precautionary measures to strengthen campus security further.
He said: “These measures include the deployment of personnel of the Nigerian 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.”
Inya also announced a ban on motorcycle operations on campus to monitor possible infiltration of terrorists into the institution.
He said: “Management also wishes to inform members of the university community that, with immediate effect, motorcycle operations within the campus have been suspended.
“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.”
Inya said the university management had assured students and staff of their safety in the light of the rumoured imminent attack.
He urged UNN students and staff to remain calm and continue their normal activities without fear.
The spokesperson advised parents, guardians and students, as well as staff members, against spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary anxiety, panic or disruption.
The statement added: “While there is no known threat to the university, we encourage members of the university community to be vigilant and security-conscious.
“Any suspicious person, movement or activity should be promptly reported to the University Security Department or the nearest security agency.
“Security is a collective responsibility, and the cooperations of all staff, students and other stakeholders are essential in maintaining the peaceful and secure environment for which the University of Nigeria is known.”
There had been a previous rumour of a planned terror attack on a university in Enugu State.
Last December, there was a video report that some armed “Fulani bandits” had settled near Maduka University in Enugu State, from where they carry out deadly attacks.
The report, which the university has since debunked, claimed the bandits set up about 38 camps near the privately-owned institution.
