The management of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has dismissed reports suggesting that students have been directed to resume from the ongoing mid-semester break, describing a circulating notice on the matter as fake and unauthorised.

In a statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, the institution said the purported letter did not originate from the Office of the Registrar or any recognised authority within the university.

According to the statement, the signature attached to the document was forged and the content deliberately fabricated to mislead members of the university community.

The university said the three-week mid-semester break approved by the Senate remains in force, urging students, parents and other stakeholders to disregard the circulating letter entirely.

“The said letter did not emanate from the Office of the Registrar or any authorised organ of the University. The signature appended thereto is fake, forged and criminally fabricated,” the statement noted.

The institution described the document as the handiwork of individuals seeking to create confusion and undermine the integrity of the university.

It further stated that the false notice was intended to generate unnecessary tension within the academic community and tarnish the institution’s reputation.

“The content is not only false and highly malicious, but also reckless in conception and condemnable in its entirety,” the university said.

Management advised students, parents, guardians, alumni and staff members to rely only on official communication channels for verified information concerning academic activities and resumption dates.

The university reiterated its commitment to maintaining transparency, peace and orderliness within the institution while safeguarding the welfare of members of the university community.

It also urged stakeholders to remain calm and vigilant against the spread of misinformation and unverified reports on social media and other platforms.

“Official information from the University will always be disseminated through recognised and verified communication channels,” the statement added.