There was a disagreement between the University of Jos and the Plateau State Police Command following conflicting reports over an alleged bomb threat targeting the institution.

The bomb threat alarm was first raised in a leaked memo signed by the Acting Chief Security Officer of the UNIJOS, Agama Tangni.

In the memo, dated July 4, 2025, Tangni warned of a credible bomb threat and directed all base officers and security personnel on campus to be on “red alert.”

The directive urged heightened vigilance and thorough screening of all persons entering and exiting the university premises.

The memo read in part, “I write this URGENT memo to notify you of a bomb threat in Jos, particularly targeting the University of Jos.

Based on the security alert and information received, all Heads of Bases, Heads of Units and all personnel are to be on red alert and be vigilant.

“Please, let’s take note and protect all facilities in our charge.

All persons entering and exiting the premises of the university are to be searched properly to avoid falling victims.”

However, in a swift reaction on Saturday, the Plateau State Police Command dismissed the alert, describing it as unsubstantiated as no credible intelligence indicated an imminent bomb attack on the university or the Jos metropolis.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, Alabo Alfred, in a statement, assured the public that the situation was under control.

“It has come to the attention of the Plateau State Police Command, news circulating on social media and other platforms regarding a planned bomb attack on the University of Jos Community and other parts of the Jos Metropolis.

“The Plateau State Police Command wishes to state that these rumours are unsubstantiated, as there is no credible evidence to back them up,” the statement read.

Despite the denial, Alfred said the command said it had taken precautionary steps.

According to him, the Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, has ordered the deployment of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit to sweep the university and other vulnerable locations.

He said, “The CP has ordered the immediate deployment of the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit (Anti-Bomb Squad) to conduct a thorough sweep of the University of Jos Community and other vulnerable areas within the metropolis.

“He has also deployed well-trained bomb technicians, specialized patrol teams, and officers from the State Intelligence Department to certain flashpoints to enhance the security architecture and ensure that our dear state remains peaceful and safe.”

The police also called on residents to remain calm but vigilant, urging them to report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.

The disagreement has sparked concerns among students and residents in Jos, with many calling for clarity and transparency from both the university and security authorities to avoid panic. (Sunday PUNCH, excluding headline)