The Rivers State Police Command has debunked online reports alleging riots in parts of the state and an attack on the residence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
Social media had been flooded with claims that aggrieved individuals had set fire to the former Rivers State Governor’s residence on Ada George Road in Port Harcourt on Sunday, reportedly linked to the ongoing political tensions in the state.
However, in a statement issued on Monday, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, dismissed the reports as baseless and a deliberate attempt by mischief-makers to incite fear and unrest among residents.
She affirmed that no act of violence or arson had been recorded at Wike’s residence, warning that those responsible for spreading falsehoods would face legal consequences if they persisted.
Police Statement on the False Reports
“The attention of the Rivers State Police Command has been drawn to a misleading and malicious report circulating on various online platforms, falsely claiming that riots have erupted in Rivers State, resulting in the burning of the residence of former Governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, alongside 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 public is urged to disregard these unfounded claims, which are clearly intended to create panic and destabilize the peace and security enjoyed in 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.”
Call for Public Caution
The statement further reassured residents of the Police Command’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state.
“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.”
The police reiterated their dedication to upholding law and order while urging individuals to refrain from engaging in activities that could incite public unrest.
