The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has warned against the circulation of fake information in the state because of the nationwide protests.
The State Police Commissioner, CP Waheed Ayilara, said the Command was aware of fake information in circulation that protesters had blocked a road linking the state capital at Itak Junction and were causing destruction including damage to vehicles.
“We wish to categorically state that the information is false and was only aimed at causing unnecessary unrest and panic within the state.
“The Command wishes to state that Akwa Ibom State remains peaceful. The incident that was purported to be protest was the arrest of one Michael Edet Effa who was suspected to be a ritualist.
“The villagers threw properties suspected to be charms out of his rented apartment while doing so, names of some individuals who died in the village were seen being tied to different charms.
“Immediately, the Command swing into action and took the suspect to the state Criminal Investigation Department to prevent being lynched.”
The commissioner reassured Akwa Ibomites of the Command’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order, as the Command worked assiduously to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
“Members of the public are thereby advised to remain calm and vigilant, and to report any suspicious activities or movement to the nearest police station,” he stressed.