By Abdullahi Inuwa
In response to widely circulated but now retracted reports, Development Communication Devcoms Network and key health stakeholders have dispelled claims that a mob attack occurred during a recent family planning outreach at Mbierebe Akpawat in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State.
The outreach, held earlier this June, was described by organizers as peaceful, productive, and warmly received by the local community. Contrary to the false reports, no threats or hostile incidents took place during the event.
> “At no point was the safety of our team or participants at risk,” confirmed Mrs. Ime Ekere, the Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Family Planning Coordinator. “The outreach ran smoothly, and community members accessed services voluntarily.”
According to Devcoms Network, the inaccurate story that suggested a violent mob encounter was based on false information and failed to reflect the actual atmosphere of the event. Health officials and media partners working on the ground with local authorities have since clarified and corrected the record.
Community Welcomes Reproductive Health Services
The outreach, part of an ongoing reproductive health awareness campaign, saw numerous women accessing various family planning options, supported by trained health workers. Many expressed gratitude for the initiative, which empowers families to make informed decisions about child spacing and maternal health.
> “The acceptance of family planning is growing across Akwa Ibom and other states,” said a Devcoms spokesperson. “Misinformation like this undermines years of trust-building work between health workers and the public.”
While acknowledging that myths and misconceptions about family planning still persist in parts of the country, Devcoms emphasized that such challenges do not translate into violence or hostility. Rather, they highlight the importance of respectful community engagement and education tailored to cultural and religious contexts.
> “Family planning is not about limiting freedom or promoting immorality,” the statement reads. “It’s about equipping families with the knowledge and tools to plan responsibly, improve maternal and child health, and promote family well-being.”
Stakeholders stressed that spreading false narratives of violence can have serious consequences—damaging trust, discouraging women from seeking services, and threatening public health progress. The outreach’s success reflects the growing acceptance of family planning across Nigeria and the positive impact of government-led, community-driven partnerships.
With ongoing technical and communication support from partners, Nigeria’s family planning programs remain committed to respecting cultural values, collaborating with religious and traditional leaders, and delivering accurate, accessible reproductive health education.
Devcoms Network and its partners urge the public and media to verify health-related claims thoroughly before publication, ensuring that truth—not fear—guides conversations about public health.
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