Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Bauchi, has firmly denied allegations published by Sahara Reporters on July 30, 2025, which claimed that the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Fatimah Tahir, used the Department of State Services (DSS) to harass a student over a critical article.
In a statement signed by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Auwal Hassan, the institution described the report as “false, misleading, and malicious.” The university further stated that the person in question, one Mr. Shehu Ahmed Buwayi, has never been a student of SAZU.
“The Vice Chancellor has never instructed, contacted, or influenced the DSS—or any other security agency—to target or harass Mr. Buwayi or any individual,” the statement read. “This allegation is entirely baseless and clearly aimed at discrediting the university’s leadership.”
The original report, citing the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), accused the Vice Chancellor of persecuting Mr. Buwayi through state security services in response to an article he had written. However, SAZU refuted the claim, emphasizing that Buwayi had no academic ties to the university.
The institution also highlighted Professor Tahir’s record as a “respected academic and democratic administrator” who has consistently promoted freedom of expression and open dialogue on campus. It warned, however, that such freedoms do not cover defamatory or inciting speech.
Citing Section 373 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, the university reminded the public that defamation of character remains a criminal offense, and that false statements aimed at damaging reputations carry legal consequences.
In a firm call to action, the university demanded an immediate retraction from Mr. Buwayi and urged CITAD to verify the credibility of any claims it associates with before making public statements. It also warned unnamed individuals allegedly involved in “a campaign of sabotage” to cease actions that could harm the university’s image and the interests of its students and staff.
“We remain focused on building a world-class university that Bauchi State and Nigeria will continue to be proud of,” the statement concluded.
The university also reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence and transparency, calling for public support in upholding truth and institutional integrity.
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