UNIPORT Debunks Viral Snake Rumour, Labels It False News

The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has dismissed as entirely false a viral social media rumour claiming that a large snake, allegedly worshipped as a deity, was discovered and killed in one of its hostels or classrooms.

The false report, which circulated widely online on Tuesday, was accompanied by a voice note that caused panic among students, parents, and the general public.

In an official statement released on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, UNIPORT categorically denied the claims and urged the public to disregard the misinformation. The university’s spokesperson, Dr. Sammy Kpenu, stressed that no such incident had occurred on campus, describing the story as completely fabricated and intended to incite fear.

“The attention of the University of Port Harcourt Management has been drawn to unfounded rumours and misleading social media posts alleging that a ‘big snake’ was killed in one of the classrooms on campus and described as a deity,” the statement read.

Kpenu further noted the existence of a circulating voice note designed to spread fear and further fuel the false narrative.

He added, “The University wishes to categorically state that these claims are entirely false, baseless, and a figment of the imagination of mischief-makers. No snake was seen, no snake was killed, and no such incident has occurred anywhere on campus.”

The university condemned the originators of the rumour, accusing them of seeking social media attention at the expense of the institution’s reputation.

UNIPORT assured students, staff, and the public that the campus remains a safe and secure environment for academic activities. The management also warned against the spread of such misinformation and emphasized that appropriate steps have been taken to identify and report those responsible to relevant authorities.

The university concluded by encouraging the public to rely solely on official communication channels for accurate and credible information regarding campus affairs.