…Says misinformation capable of threatening public peace
By Abdullahi Inuwa
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has issued a strong warning against the circulation of false information, unsubstantiated allegations and fabricated narratives capable of creating tension and undermining peace in the state.
The Command, in a statement signed by its Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, on Friday, said it had observed the increasing circulation of misinformation and unverified claims concerning recent developments in Akwa Ibom.
The Police said it would not allow false or misleading information to be used to confuse residents, incite hostility or threaten the security and stability of the state.
It therefore urged members of the public, political actors, commentators, social media users and content creators to verify information before publishing or sharing it.
The Command warned against presenting speculation, hearsay or deliberately fabricated claims as established facts, stressing that responsible public discourse was essential to maintaining peace.
While reaffirming its commitment to the fundamental rights of citizens, including freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, the Police said such rights must be exercised within the confines of the law.
According to the Command, freedom of expression should not be used to justify deliberate falsehood, incitement, threats, intimidation or other conduct capable of provoking violence or disturbing public order.
The Police further assured residents that it would continue to discharge its constitutional responsibilities professionally, fairly and impartially.
It said no individual, group or political interest would receive preferential treatment, just as nobody would be subjected to arbitrary action because of political affiliation, sentiment or unfounded allegations.
The Command also stated that anyone whose conduct amounted to an offence would be investigated and dealt with in accordance with due process, irrespective of status, affiliation or influence.
It urged residents to assess public issues objectively and avoid conclusions driven by ethnicity, political affiliation, personal interests or preconceived bias.
The Police stressed that the truth of an issue should not depend on whether it favours a particular individual or group, urging citizens to consider available facts and allow lawful processes to take their course.
The Command appealed to Akwa Ibom residents to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding, while relying on credible and official sources for information concerning security developments in the state.
It said the cooperation of residents remained crucial to sustaining the peace, security and stability currently enjoyed across Akwa Ibom.
“Akwa Ibom State remains peaceful, and the Command remains resolute, professional and impartial in ensuring that it stays so,” the statement said.
DSP Timfon John signed the statement on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command.
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