UDS Clarifies False Media Claims About Student Conviction
The University for Development Studies (UDS) has broken silence on trending media reports regarding Mr Salifu Nurudeen, a former student convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Mr. Wumpini Mohammed Zakiu.
In an official statement from the Directorate of Public Affairs, UDS expressed strong disappointment over how certain media headlines and social media narratives have misrepresented the situation. The University pointed out that many of these reports falsely claimed that the crime happened on its Nyankpala Campus while school was in session.
“These reports are not only inaccurate but unfair and potentially damaging,” the statement said.
UDS made it clear that the incident in question did not occur on any of its campuses. The school had officially gone on break at the time the crime was committed in September 2023, and all students had returned home. This important detail, the University believes, was deliberately left out in several reports, leading to false assumptions.
The University also condemned the use of its main gate’s image in some of the stories. According to the rejoinder, this act of using the University’s physical structure to support misleading headlines was nothing short of sensationalism.
“Using visual elements such as the University’s gate to support these misleading impressions is sensationalism at the expense of truth and context,” the school emphasized.
UDS further explained that the crime occurred completely outside the school’s jurisdiction and had nothing to do with any of its facilities or academic activities. While distancing itself from the tragic incident, the University did not fail to show empathy for the family of the victim.
“We deeply commiserate with the family and loved ones of the late Wumpini Mohammed Zakiu and acknowledge the pain they continue to endure,” the statement added.
Beyond clearing its name, UDS used the opportunity to advise media houses, bloggers, and content creators to uphold higher ethical standards in their reporting.
“We respectfully urge media houses, bloggers, and social media influencers to exercise a higher level of circumspection in their reporting,” the University said.
The school emphasized that institutions like UDS spend years building their reputation, nurturing students, and providing a secure academic environment, and such careless reporting could undo a lot of that good work.
“Irresponsible or sensational reporting erodes public confidence and feeds into negative stereotypes,” it stressed.
To assure the public, UDS reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and security of all students and staff, indicating that strict security protocols remain active across all its campuses.
“We continue to work closely with the appropriate agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of our entire university community,” the University confirmed.
UDS ended its statement by calling on the media to be partners in national development.
“Truthful journalism remains a vital pillar of our democracy and a valuable ally in preserving the dignity and reputation of institutions,” the Directorate concluded.
While the crime remains a painful and tragic reality, the University’s message is a reminder that truth matters, and ethical reporting should always guide the way forward.
Official statement below
