…But says, information was “strictly for the University’s security personnel.”
by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Management of the University of Jos (UNIJOS) wishes to acknowledge the recent distress caused by reports circulating on various Social Media platforms, suggesting that the University is “a target for a purported bomb attack” alongside other areas of the Jos Metropolis.
The reports, which stemmed from an internal memo, were erroneously shared beyond their intended audience.
A statement was signed and issued to our Correspondent in Jos, on Sunday, by the institution’s Senior Deputy Register Information and Publications, Abdullahi Abdullahi.
According to the statement, “The University Administration has clarified that the document in question was strictly for the University’s Security personnel, aimed at heightening awareness and vigilance as a pre-emptive measure. The University is committed to ensuring the safety of members of its community.”
It also stated that, “The widespread circulation of this memo on social media has unfortunately led to undue panic.
“The University Administration wishes to emphasize that there is no immediate threat to the University, and measures are being taken to ensure that our campus is safe and secure for teaching and learning.
“In addition, the University Administration is actively collaborating with the Plateau State Police Command and other Security Agencies to ensure the continued safety and well-being of everyone in our institution and its surroundings.”
They also urged members of the public to remain calm and vigilant and to refrain from spreading unfounded information that may further cause alarm.
Reacting to the rumour of the bomb attack in Jos, the Plateau State Police Command says, “The Command’s attention has been drawn, following the recent news circulating on Social Media and other platforms, regarding a planned bomb attack on the University of Jos Community, and other parts of the Jos Metropolis.
“The Plateau State Police Command says that these rumours are unsubstantiated, as there is no credible evidence to back them up.”
A statement was signed and issued to newsmen in Jos by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Alfred Alabo, who said “The Commissioner of Police Plateau State Command, lCP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, has taken proactive measures to prevent any possible attacks on the State, and ensure the safety of our dear citizens.”
According to the statement, “The CP has ordered the immediate deployment of the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit (Anti-Bomb Squad)to conduct a thorough sweep of the University of Jos Community and other vulnerable areas within the metropolis.
“He has also deployed well-trained Bomb Technicians, Specialized Patrol Teams, and officers from the State Intelligence Department (SID) to certain flash points, in order to enhance the security architecture and ensure that our dear State remains peaceful and safe.
“The Plateau State Police Command, therefore, urges our good and peace-loving citizens to remain calm, vigilant and report any suspicious persons, movement or activity within their vicinity to the Police or the nearest security agency.
“While the Commissioner of Police acknowledges the importance of Community Policing, therefore, he uses this opportunity to call on the good citizens of Plateau State to cooperate with us by providing accurate, useful and timely information on any suspicious persons, movements or activity within their vicinity. We assure you, that we are working tirelessly to ensure your safety and security.”