Police warn against misinformation in Akwa Ibom

Etim Ekpimah

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has warned residents, political actors and social media users against spreading false information, unsubstantiated allegations and fabricated narratives to create tension and undermine public peace.

The command issued the warning on Thursday and made it available to journalists on Friday amid the circulation of what it described as misinformation and misleading reports concerning recent developments in the state.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the command said it would not allow false or misleading information to be used to confuse the public, incite hostility or threaten the security of the state.

It urged residents, political actors, commentators, social media users and content creators to verify information before publishing or circulating it, warning against presenting speculation, hearsay or fabrication as fact.

The command, however, said it remained committed to protecting citizens’ fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

It added that such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the law, stressing that freedom of expression should not be used to promote deliberate falsehood, incitement, threats, intimidation or conduct capable of provoking violence or disturbing public peace.

“The Nigeria Police Force is a professional institution guided by the Constitution, applicable laws, established procedures and its constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property, prevent crime and maintain public order,” the statement said.

The command said it would continue to discharge its duties fairly, firmly and impartially, without giving preferential treatment to any individual, group or political interest.

It also pledged that no person would be subjected to arbitrary action because of political affiliation, sentiment or unsubstantiated allegations.

According to the statement, anyone whose conduct constitutes an offence would be investigated and, where appropriate, prosecuted in accordance with due process, regardless of status, affiliation or influence.

The command also urged residents to assess public issues objectively rather than through the lens of ethnicity, political affiliation, personal interest or preconceived views.

It said: “An issue does not have to go in one’s favour before it can be regarded as genuine, lawful or true.”

The police urged citizens to consider available facts and avoid drawing conclusions based solely on sentiment or personal expectations.

The command appealed to residents to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding and to obtain information on security developments from credible and official sources.

It said public cooperation remained essential to sustaining peace, security and stability in Akwa Ibom.

The command further assured residents that the state remained peaceful and that it would continue to act professionally and impartially in maintaining public order.