The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), through its Department of Mass Communication, has dismissed a viral photo falsely linking one of its students, Ifeme Rebecca Yahoma—popularly known as Becky—to a fabricated romantic relationship.
The controversy followed a visit to the campus by content creator and YouTuber Asherkine, during which he treated Becky to a lavish outing that included shopping and the gift of a premium smartphone. In a video from the outing, Becky stated that she was single and had never been in a relationship.
Shortly after the video went public, a photo began circulating online showing Becky with an unidentified man, prompting accusations from social media users that she had misled the public about her relationship status.
In response, the Department of Mass Communication issued a formal statement denouncing the photo as digitally altered and the accompanying rumors as defamatory.
“Our attention has been drawn to a viral post circulating across social media platforms, falsely suggesting that our student, Ifeme Rebecca Yahoma, misrepresented her relationship status during Asherkine’s visit,” the statement read. “These claims are completely unfounded and defamatory.”
According to the department, an internal review revealed that the image was doctored and shared by one Mr. Kenny, who falsely claimed to be Becky’s boyfriend. His actions were described as a deliberate attempt to tarnish her reputation.
The department condemned the act as character assassination and a misuse of digital platforms to spread misinformation.
“Becky is a respected student within our department, and we will not tolerate any campaign aimed at discrediting her based on falsehoods. We urge the public to disregard these malicious posts and refrain from sharing such content,” the statement added.
The department warned that individuals who continue to circulate the altered image may face legal consequences and called for ethical behavior on social media, urging a collective stand against defamation and cyberbullying.
