Cross River Government Denies Plan to Relocate UNICROSS Okuku Campus: Why Official Communication Matters

The Cross River State Government has dismissed as false reports claiming that the Okuku Campus of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) will be relocated to Akamkpa. Akahi News gathered that the Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Adi Odey, issued an official press statement dated 14 July 2026, describing the claim as “unfounded, mischievous and politically motivated.”

According to the Commissioner, the rumour has created anxiety among students, parents, staff and residents of Yala Local Government Area, prompting numerous requests for clarification. He categorically stated that the government has no plan whatsoever to relocate the campus and urged members of the public to disregard the speculation.

The statement further disclosed that Governor Bassey Edet Otu, working through the Vice-Chancellor of UNICROSS, Professor Francisca Bassey, recently approved the renovation of facilities at the Okuku Campus, describing the development as evidence of the government’s commitment to strengthening academic activities there.

Critical Analysis

i. Rumours Can Create Unnecessary Public Anxiety

Akahi News believes this incident demonstrates how quickly unverified information can spread and trigger fear among citizens.

For students already planning their academic future, parents making financial commitments and staff working at the institution, rumours of campus relocation naturally create uncertainty and emotional distress. This underscores the importance of verifying information before sharing it.

ii. Government’s Quick Response Helps Protect Public Confidence

One positive aspect of this development is the speed with which the Ministry of Education responded.

Timely official communication is essential in preventing misinformation from gaining credibility. When government institutions address controversial issues promptly and clearly, they help reduce confusion and maintain public trust.

iii. Infrastructure Investment Contradicts the Rumour

Akahi News learnt from the Commissioner’s statement that the state government recently approved renovation works at the Okuku Campus.

If substantial resources are being invested in improving facilities at the campus, such action appears inconsistent with claims that the institution is about to be relocated. While infrastructure development alone does not determine future policy, it strengthens the government’s position that the relocation rumour is unfounded.

iv. Social Media Users Must Exercise Greater Responsibility

The controversy also serves as a reminder that social media has become a powerful tool capable of spreading both accurate information and misinformation within minutes.

Citizens, bloggers and content creators have a responsibility to verify sensitive claims—especially those affecting education, public policy and community development—before publishing or forwarding them.

v. Education Should Be Kept Above Political Controversy

The Commissioner described the rumour as politically motivated.

Whether or not that claim is ultimately accepted by the public, Akahi News believes educational institutions should not become instruments for political speculation or misinformation. Universities exist to promote learning, research and development, and public discussions about them should be based on verified facts rather than rumours.

What This Means for Cross River Residents

For students, parents and residents of Yala and neighbouring communities, the government’s statement provides reassurance that the Okuku Campus is expected to remain in its current location.

However, the incident also highlights the importance of relying on official government channels whenever sensitive policy issues arise rather than depending solely on social media reports or unverified messages.

Akahi News welcomes the prompt clarification issued by the Cross River State Ministry of Education.

Whether discussing education, governance or community development, accurate information remains essential for public confidence and informed decision-making. As the government continues its investment in educational infrastructure, stakeholders should continue engaging with verified information while resisting the spread of rumours that may unnecessarily create fear and division.

Ultimately, strong communication between government and citizens is just as important as the physical development of educational institutions.