The University of Maiduguri has dismissed as false and baseless a viral social media video alleging that some of its students were arrested for collaborating with Boko Haram insurgents.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Registrar of the university, Ahmad Lawan, described the claim as misleading and mischievous, stressing that no student of the institution has been found to have links with Boko Haram or any other extremist group.
“The attention of the management of the University of Maiduguri has been drawn to a misleading and disturbing viral video circulating on social media platforms, claiming that students of the university were arrested for collaborating with Boko Haram insurgents,” the statement said.
“The university management wishes to categorically state that the allegations contained in the video are baseless, false and mischievous. No student of the university has been found to have links with Boko Haram insurgents or any other similar groups,” it added.
According to the statement, the university community comprises disciplined and law-abiding staff and students from diverse backgrounds who are primarily committed to academic pursuits.
“Our students are trained in both character and learning, have demonstrated good behaviour, and remain focused on their studies,” the registrar said.
The university urged parents, guardians, the media and the general public to disregard the misinformation, warning that the spread of such false narratives could cause unnecessary panic and damage the institution’s reputation.
It reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence, moral discipline, and the promotion of peace, security and national unity.
“We appeal to all to refrain from spreading this false narrative due to its negative impact. The University of Maiduguri remains steadfast in its commitment to academic excellence, moral discipline, and the promotion of peace and national security,” the statement concluded.