COLLEGE OF NURSING, JALINGO DEBUNKS FALSE CLAIM OF TUITION FEE INCREASE
The management of the College of Nursing, Jalingo, has firmly dismissed circulating reports alleging that students recently protested over an increase in tuition fees, describing the claims as entirely false, misleading, and a product of unverified journalism.
The reports, widely shared by some social media platforms in Taraba State—particularly Taraba Truth and Facts—suggested that the institution had reviewed its fee structure, triggering student unrest. However, the Provost of the College, Dr. (Mrs.) Dorcas Dugule, has categorically refuted the claims, stating that no such decision has been contemplated, discussed, or implemented by the management.
According to Dr. Dugule, “The information is a figment of the imagination of its publishers. At no point has the management initiated or even considered any increase in tuition fees, let alone a situation that could lead to a student protest.”
She expressed deep concern over what she described as the growing trend of irresponsible and unethical journalism, where individuals masquerading as professionals disseminate unverified and sensational information to the public. She noted that such practices not only misinform the public but also erode the credibility of the journalism profession.
“It is alarming that anyone claiming to operate under professional guidelines would publish such a damaging report without the most basic step of verification. This is not only reckless but also a disservice to the public and the institution involved,” she added.
Dr. Dugule called on the general public to disregard the misleading reports, assuring that the College remains stable and focused on its academic mandate. She emphasized that since assuming office in late 2025, her administration has prioritized institutional growth, discipline, and improved standards in both academic delivery and infrastructural development.
She further commended the cooperation and commitment of the institution’s management team, stating that their collective efforts are geared toward positioning the College as a leading center of excellence in nursing education.
On a broader note, the Provost urged the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and other regulatory bodies to intensify efforts in sanitizing the profession. She stressed the urgent need to uphold ethical standards, enforce accountability, and sanction individuals who engage in misinformation, blackmail, or character assassination under the guise of journalism.
“The consequences of publishing unverified information are far-reaching. It can incite unnecessary panic, damage reputations, disrupt institutional harmony, and undermine public trust. Journalists must understand that credibility is their most valuable asset, and once lost, it is difficult to regain,” she warned.
Dr. Dugule concluded by reiterating the importance of responsible journalism, urging media practitioners to prioritize truth, accuracy, and fairness above the pressure to break news. She emphasized that the integrity of the profession depends on a collective commitment to ethical reporting and factual accuracy.
