Akwa Ibom Police debunks viral message on alleged Boko Haram infiltration
Kola Oyelere Kano
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The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismissed as false a viral message claiming that Boko Haram fighters have infiltrated parts of Southern and North-Central Nigeria, including Lagos, Ilorin, and Rivers State, and are distributing dangerous key holders embedded with tracking devices.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the Command described the circulating message as “fake, misleading, and purely fabricated to cause fear, panic, and unnecessary tension.”
DSP John said no security agency has issued intelligence or reports supporting the claims, urging the public to disregard the rumour and avoid sharing unverified information capable of causing distress.
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Given Akwa Ibom’s proximity to some of the states mentioned in the viral alert, the Command said it found it necessary to address residents directly to prevent panic.
“The public is advised to remain calm and go about their lawful activities. Robust security measures have been put in place across all Local Government Areas,” the statement read.
According to the Command, patrol teams, surveillance units, tactical squads, and community policing structures are fully active and continuously monitoring the security environment.
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While assuring residents of their safety, the Police urged the public to stay vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons, movements, or activities to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
The statement emphasized that community cooperation remains crucial to maintaining peace and security in the state.