Akwa Police Command Counters Fake Viral Message

By Patrick Titus, Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has described as fake, a viral message in circulation alleging the mass arrival of Boko Haram fighters into some states in the Southern and North-Central regions of the country, including Lagos, Ilorin and Rivers State, and further claiming that dangerous key holders embedded with tracking devices are being distributed at public places.

The Command’s quick response to the message stemmed from the fact that Akwa Ibom is close to some of the states mentioned in the false alert which the Command considers it necessary to address the public directly.

Therefore, a press release issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, urged residents of the state to remain calm, go about their lawful activities and avoid sharing unverified information that can create distress within the state.

“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command wishes to categorically state that the message is FAKE, MISLEADING and should be DISREGARDED. There is no intelligence from any security agency to support these claims. The content is purely fabricated to cause fear, panic and unnecessary tension among members of the public.

“Residents of Akwa Ibom State are therefore advised to remain calm, go about their lawful activities and avoid sharing unverified information that can create distress within the state.

“The Command assures the good people of Akwa Ibom State that robust security measures are in place across all Local Government Areas. Our patrols, surveillance units, tactical teams and community policing structures are fully operational and actively monitoring the security environment,” PPRO stated.

The Command, however admonished the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious movements, persons, or activities to the nearest Police Station or any other security agency, adding that the cooperation and support of the public remain vital to the collective safety.