The Rivers State Police Command revealed on Monday that online reports of riots in parts of the state and an attack on the residence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, are false.
9News Nigeria recall that the social media was awash with reports that some aggrieved persons had set fire to the residents of the former Rivers State Governor along Ada George in Port Harcourt following the political crisis in the state.
Making a disclaimer about the rumor, spokesperson of the State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Monday, described it as a false alarm by mischief makers.
Iringe-Koko stated that there was neither any violence nor act of arson on the residents of the FCT Minister, pointing out that the baseless report is aimed at igniting unrest and fear among law-abiding citizens and residents of the state.
While warning those behind such false reports to resist forthwith, the state Police image maker said the weight of the law will catch up with them if they don’t need the advice.
9News Nigeria reports that part of the statement read;, “The attention of the Rivers State Police Command has been drawn to a misleading and malicious report circulating on various online media platforms, falsely claiming that riots have erupted in Rivers State, leading to the burning of the residence of the former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, along with other acts of violence.
“The Command categorically states that this report is entirely false, baseless, and a deliberate attempt by mischief makers to incite unrest and spread fear among law-abiding residents.
“There is no record of any such incident, and normalcy prevails across the state. The general public is urged to disregard these unfounded claims, which are clearly intended to cause panic and destabilize the relative peace and security enjoyed by the good people of Rivers State.
“Furthermore, the Police Command sternly warns those responsible for spreading such incendiary falsehoods to desist from engaging in activities capable of inciting public disorder.
“The full weight of the law will be brought to bear on individuals or groups found guilty of spreading misinformation or attempting to disrupt the peace in any form.”
It continued, “The Rivers State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
“We urge members of the public to rely on credible sources for information and to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. Citizens should remain calm and go about their lawful activities without fear.”
