The Ebonyi State Police Command has officially dismissed a viral video circulating on social media that falsely claimed bandits and Fulani herdsmen had invaded the Nguzu community in Edda Local Government Area of the state.
Police Statement on the Alleged Invasion
In a statement issued in Abakaliki, the command's spokesperson, SP Joshua Ukandu, clarified that the video did not originate from Ebonyi State. He explained that upon receiving the information, the Commissioner of Police, CP Hope Urunwa Okafor, promptly directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) for Edda Division to assess and verify the claim.
Additionally, tactical teams from the command headquarters were deployed to the area to ensure calm and safety. After a thorough search and combing operation of the affected bushes and surrounding areas, the command categorically stated that no bandits or Fulani herdsmen were lurking in Nguzu Edda Community.
False Report Aimed at Creating Panic
According to SP Ukandu, the report is false, misleading, and intended to create panic and fear among residents. He urged the people of Nguzu Edda Community and the general public to disregard the unfounded claims, describing them as the handiwork of mischief makers seeking to incite fear and disrupt the peace enjoyed in the area.
CP Okafor reassured residents of Ebonyi State that the command has put in place adequate security measures to safeguard lives and property across the state. She enjoined members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command Control Room at 07064515001.
Command's Official Statement
The statement reads: “Ebonyi State Police Command is aware of a video currently circulating on social media in which the narrator alleges that bandits and Fulani herdsmen have invaded their community. Upon receiving the information, the Commissioner of Police, Ebonyi State Command, CP Hope Urunwa Okafor, psc, mnips, immediately directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Edda Division, to assess and verify the claim, while tactical teams from the Command Headquarters were deployed to the area.
Following a thorough search and combing operation of the affected bushes and surrounding areas, the Command wishes to categorically state that there are no bandits or Fulani herdsmen lurking in Nguzu Edda Community. The report is false, misleading, and intended to create panic and fear among residents.
The Command therefore urges the people of Nguzu Edda Community and the general public to disregard the unfounded claims, as they are the handiwork of mischief makers seeking to incite fear and disrupt the peace enjoyed in the area.
CP Hope Okafor reassures residents of Ebonyi State that the Command has put in place adequate security measures to safeguard lives and property across the state. She further enjoins members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command Control Room on 07064515001.”
