November 23, (THEWILL) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismissed a viral message claiming that Boko Haram fighters have infiltrated parts of the Southern and North-Central regions of the country, describing it as fake, misleading, and intended to cause public panic.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, urged residents to ignore the message and remain calm and vigilant.
“The attention of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has been drawn to a viral message alleging the mass arrival of Boko Haram fighters in states such as Lagos, Ilorin, and Rivers, and further claiming that dangerous key holders embedded with tracking devices are being distributed in public places.
“Given Akwa Ibom State’s proximity to some of the states mentioned, the Command considers it necessary to address the public directly,” the statement said.
The police categorically stated that the claims were entirely false.
“There is no intelligence from any security agency to support these allegations. The content is fabricated to incite fear, panic, and unnecessary tension among the public,” DSP John added.
Residents were advised to go about their lawful activities and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing distress.
The Command assured that comprehensive security measures remain in place across all local government areas, with patrols, surveillance teams, tactical units, and community policing structures fully active.
The police also urged members of the public to report suspicious persons, movements, or activities to the nearest police station or any relevant security agency.
“The cooperation and support of the public remain vital to our collective safety,” the statement added.
Abdullahi Yusuf is a seasoned journalist, communicator and was previously the Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Jos, where he retired on December 15, 2021
