The Management of Plateau State University (PLASU) Bokkos has refuted reports it described as as false and misleading making the round on the social media on alleged punishment of a student who reported poor living condition within the University.
In a statement signed by the acting Public Relations Officer of the Institution, Masara Kim disclosed that the baseless accusations emanated from a comedian previously fired from a reputed media outlet for ethical reasons with an attempt to draw attention to his underperforming social media presence and revive his struggling career.
The full statement reads;
FALSE CLAIMS REGARDING STUDENT VICTIMIZATION AND LIVING CONDITIONS AT PLATEAU STATE UNIVERSITY BOKKOS
Plateau State University Bokkos wishes to address and refute the misleading claims circulating on social media regarding the alleged punishment of a student for reporting on living conditions within the university community. These baseless accusations, originating from a comedian previously dismissed from a reputed media outlet for ethical reasons, seem to be an attempt to draw attention to his underperforming social media presence and revive his struggling career.
We emphasize that no student has been, nor will ever be, punished for responsibly exercising their right to freedom of speech and expression. Any sanctions would only arise from breaches of university rules as outlined in the student handbook, which details the procedure for addressing concerns, beginning with the Students Union Government, followed by the Dean of Student Affairs, and then university management.
To date, no student has utilized these channels or followed the grievance resolution procedure. Instead, a group of so-called students chose to contact a comedian rather than a professional journalist, who would have had the integrity to seek comments from the university management and the Students Union Government, adhering to the ethics of balance and objectivity.
The claims attributed to these so-called students pertain to private arrangements outside the university campus, where many students reside. It is important to clarify that Plateau State University is not responsible for water or electricity supply beyond its campus. The comedian in his one-sided commentary failed to consider visiting the university to see things for himself, including the fully equipped and functional clinic operated by certified medical professionals.
Plateau State University Bokkos prioritizes student welfare and comfort, demonstrated by the continuous provision of quality infrastructure, including fully furnished lecture halls and student hostels equipped with modern facilities for water, sanitation, and power.
Recently, the university achieved a historic milestone by commissioning six projects in one day, which include newly renovated facilities within the Faculty of Social Sciences, lecture halls, and student hostels, alongside a robust 4.7 km perimeter fence surrounding the entire campus.
Additionally, four months ago, two new boreholes were installed at the student hostel to complement existing water sources that supply the university year-round.
These accomplishments are a testament to the pragmatic administration of our dynamic Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shedrack Gaya Best, who has worked diligently to create a conducive learning and working environment since assuming office.
Ongoing projects include a state-of-the-art Mass Communication building, a large conference hall, library upgrades, and the development of a comprehensive 5 km campus road network.
The so-called comedian failed to mention any of these efforts, likely out of ignorance or sheer malice.
We urge the public to disregard the authors of these malicious lies regarding the unavailability of water and electricity on campus. Such statements reveal their true intentions—cheap blackmail and clickbait.
Plateau State University Bokkos remains committed to the welfare and success of our students and will not be deterred.
Masara Kim
Acting Public Relations Officer,
Plateau State University Bokkos
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