The Edo State Police Command has issued a strong denial against viral social media reports claiming that a police station in the town of Ekpoma was razed by fire. Authorities have labeled the online narrative as completely false and designed to mislead the public.
Police Statement Sets the Record Straight
In an official statement released on Monday, January 12, 2026, the police command moved swiftly to counter the alarming claims. The Command's Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, stated categorically that no police facility in Ekpoma suffered any fire damage. He emphasized that the viral reports were "entirely untrue and calculated to misinform the public, generate panic, and undermine public confidence."
What Actually Happened in Ekpoma
According to the detailed police account, the real incident occurred a day earlier, on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at approximately 11:30 AM. The fire broke out not at a police station, but within the POWA Shops area located in the vicinity of the Ekpoma Police Division.
The police explained that the blaze started when electricity supply was restored by the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC). A spark reportedly emanated from one of the shops, which then ignited a fire that spread to several adjoining shops.
Police personnel, with assistance from members of the public, quickly intervened to contain and extinguish the fire. The Command confirmed that no lives were lost in the incident. An assessment to determine the total value of property damaged is currently ongoing.
Command Warns Against Misinformation
The Edo Police Command used the opportunity to condemn the actions of individuals and content creators who spread unverified information. It warned that such misinformation could fuel unnecessary panic, disrupt local economic activities, and even create security risks in the community.
The Command urged all citizens to always verify news from credible and official sources before sharing it further. Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika assured residents of Ekpoma that the security situation in the town remains stable and fully under control. He called on the public to remain law-abiding and to disregard sensational reports aimed at inciting fear.
This clarification comes at a time of heightened sensitivity in the university town. It follows a separate incident on Saturday, January 10, where a peaceful protest against insecurity and kidnappings was hijacked by hoodlums, leading to violence.
