By Hussain Wahab
CLAIM
A circulating press release on WhatsApp has claimed that male genitalia(penises) are disappearing on and off Campus of the Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK).
The press was titled: Urgent Notice: “Incident of Mysterious Penis Disappearance on and off Campus.” The press was not dated and its status has caused a lot of controversies.
VERDICT
True but in the past.
FULL TEXT
On the 19th of September, 2023, a WhatsApp user, Lanre Akasa shared a press release on his status with the caption, “lol.” The press release was from the office of the vice-president of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, and signed by Gimba Faith.
Also, on the 20th of September, another user shared the post to the National Union of Saki Students, WhatsApp group. Although it was signed but was not dated.
The press reads:
“I regret to inform you about a series of peculiar incidents involving the theft of male genitalia on and off campus. These individuals, referred to as the “Penis Bandits,” have reportedly stolen approximately eight (8) penises thus far. While some have been returned, we remain concerned as the culprits are still at large, and their next target is unpredictable.
“The modus operands of these bandits is particularly baffling. It has been reported that when they touch or shake hands with their victims, the penises mysteriously vanish. We understand the gravity of this situation and assure you that the safety and well-being of the students are our utmost priority.”
Continuing, “In response to these incidents, the Student Union Government (SUG) is taking immediate action. We urge everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the School Security Unit. Your cooperation is crucial in ensuring the safety of the university community. We encourage unity and solidarity during these challenging times. Let us stand together, support one another, and remain resilient. The SUG is working closely with the appropriate authorities to address this issue and bring the perpetrators to justice.
We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available. In the meantime, please exercise caution and remain alert. Together, we can overcome this peculiar challenge and maintain a safe and secure campus environment. Stay safe and united!” it concluded.
VERIFICATION
Findings by The News Digest Press shows that although the claim was true but not a present occurrence.
The News Digest Press checked through NSUK’s social media pages and nothing was found.
This reporter then reached out to Gimba Faith, the Vice president of Nasarawa State University on the 20th of September 2023, she confirmed that the press release was from her office but it happened months back.
“It’s been a while now.”
While speaking with this reporter on the phone, she explained how the male students of the University experience such challenging incidents.
“It is like three months now when our students were experiencing mysterious penis disappearance but now, everything is back to normalcy and they have regained their manhood,” she commented.
All efforts to speak with the victim prove abortive. “For privacy purposes you will not be able to speak with the victim,” Faith responded.
CONCLUSION
The News Digest Press found out that the press release is true but the incidents have occurred in the past— about 3 months ago; and nothing of such is happening at the moment.