The Nigeria Police Force has refuted a “false and misleading” message spreading across WhatsApp and various social media channels, which claims that 79 terrorists are present in the Lugbe area and surrounding regions, and that the police have declared a curfew there.
In a statement issued on Sunday, March 2, the force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, clarified that the message is inaccurate and should be ignored.
The Police Force spokesperson unequivocally rejected the assertions made in the message.
‘’From intelligence gathered by the Force Intelligence teams and other security agencies, there are no terrorists taking refuge in the Lugbe area of the Federal Capital Territory. The message, purportedly signed by “ACP Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Public Relations Officer (FPRO) Police Command Headquarters, Abuja”, is a fabrication.
“The Force believes this message was generated by a devious person/persons with intents to create tension, incite panic and distabilize the existing peace in the FCT. We urge citizens to digest only news and information from the official handles of the Nigeria Police Force on social media, viz @PoliceNG on X, @ngpolice on Facebook, and @nigeriapoliceforce on Instagram and verified news sources,” the statement reads in part.
Adejobi encouraged the public to be cautious when circulating information online and to confirm the legitimacy of any security-related warnings with official channels before sharing them.
‘’Citizens should disregard news and information not originating from authentic police sources and should not panic due to unverified news circulating on social media.
‘’The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and residents of the Federal Capital Territory and the entire country. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or through our emergency contact lines.
“The Nigeria Police Force appreciates the cooperation of the public and assures them of our unwavering dedication to protecting lives and property,” the statement concluded.
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