The Akwa Ibom Police Command has dismissed as false a viral message alleging the mass arrival of Boko Haram fighters in some southern and north-central states, including Lagos, Ilorin and Rivers.
This is contained in a statement issued on Saturday in Uyo by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John.
The message also claimed that key holders embedded with tracking devices were being distributed to unsuspecting members of the public in various locations.
John described the content of the viral alert as fake, misleading and capable of causing unnecessary fear and panic among residents.
She said there was no intelligence from any security agency to support the claims circulating online, noting that the allegations were fabricated to create tension.
“The Command urges residents of Akwa Ibom to disregard the message and go about their lawful activities,” she said.
According to her, the Command has instituted adequate security measures across all Local Government Areas of the state, with patrols, surveillance units, tactical teams and community policing structures fully operational.
She urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
John reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents, stressing that public cooperation remained essential in sustaining peace in the state.