Management of the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) says it has tightened security at its Nsukka campus, as a measure to ensure safety and protection of staff, students and visitors.

The management said the move was made following an alleged impending terrorists attack, to abduct some students of the institution,

This is contained in a statement by the Acting Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the university, Inya Egwu, on Sunday in Nsukka, Enugu.

The statement said as part of precautionary measures, the university had deployed officials of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army at key entry points, to complement the efforts of the institution’s security department.

It stated, “The management of the university of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) has become aware of a social media post currently circulating online, alleging an impending terrorist attack and mass abduction of students on the Nsukka campus.

“Members of the university community are urged to remain calm and go about their normal activities without fear.

“The university has taken precautionary measures to further strengthen security on the campus, following the alleged impending terrorists attack, as contained in social media.

“Management has deployed personnel of the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Army at key entry points to complement the efforts of the UNN’s security unit.

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

The statement also noted that management had suspended motorcycle operations in the Nsukka campus, stating that no motorcycle would be allowed beyond the gates.

“Management wishes to inform members of the university community that motorcycle operations within the campus have 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.

It explained however, that there was no credible security intelligence or verified threat to the university that supported the claims as contained in the social media post, of an alleged impending attack on and subsequent abduction of students of the institution.

“The above measures being taken by the university are precautionary and  proactive. The information being circulated in social media is unsubstantiated and should not be regarded as factual,” it said.

The statement advised members of the university community to be vigilant and security-conscious, as well as report any suspicious persons or movement to the security department of the institution, or the nearest security agency.

“Security is a collective responsibility, the co-operation of all staff, students and other stakeholders are essential in maintaining a peaceful and secure environment,” the statement added 

(NAN)