The management of Bayero University Kano, BUK, has commenced an investigation into the alleged fraudulent activities of a 200-level student, Ismail Sani.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the university’s Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba, said the institution had begun reviewing the matter in line with its established rules and disciplinary procedures governing students’ conduct.
The development follows allegations by US-based Nigerian academic, Farooq Kperogi, who recently disclosed how the student allegedly defrauded him multiple times while impersonating “Halima Tahir,” purportedly a 300-level microbiology student of the university.
According to Mr Kperogi, he later discovered that the individual behind the identity was actually Ismail Sani, a veterinary medicine student at BUK.
Following the revelation, several other alleged victims reportedly came forward, sharing similar experiences involving the suspect.
Reacting to the development, the university emphasised that the personal actions of any individual student do not reflect the values or character of the institution.
Mr Garba stated that BUK maintains strict standards of conduct, discipline and character for all students throughout their period of study.
“The management wishes to state that Bayero University Kano maintains strict standards of conduct, discipline and character for all students throughout the duration of their studies,” he said.
“Any conduct capable of bringing the name and reputation of the university into disrepute is treated with the utmost seriousness.”
He added that the institution had commenced a preliminary inquiry to ascertain the facts surrounding the allegations.
“The appropriate university authorities are reviewing the issue in line with the institution’s established rules and disciplinary procedures governing students’ conduct,” Mr Garba said.
The university also commended public-spirited individuals such as Mr Kperogi and others who provide financial assistance to students in need, including support for registration fees and other educational expenses.
“Such acts of generosity continue to play an important role in expanding access to education and supporting deserving students,” the statement added.
BUK assured the public that if the allegations are substantiated, appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken in accordance with the university’s regulations and applicable laws.
The institution also urged members of the public to allow the investigative process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or the circulation of unverified information.
