Omiete Joseph
The Rivers State Police Command has refuted that reports going viral that there was violence in the state following alleged clash between security operatives loyal to the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike and Governor of the State, Siminalayi Fubara.
The command made the debunked the news in a statement signed by SP Grace Iringe-Koko, Public Relations Officer of the state police command.
The statement “refutes the unsubstantiated report currently circulating, alleging a violent altercation at the Rivers State Government House involving supposed military forces allegedly loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike and current Governor Sim Fubara”.
“We can confirm that there was no such incident, and this narrative is a deliberate fabrication aimed at inciting fear, confusion, and unrest within Rivers State.
There have been no reports of armed confrontations or casualties involving Nigerian military personnel within Rivers State. Furthermore, Governor Fubara has neither ordered a curfew, nor called for any form of take-over of security operations within the state by militant groups.
“The Nigeria Police Force and other security and law enforcement agencies remain in full control, actively maintaining peace and security in Rivers State and across the State.”
Iringe-Koko stated that “This false narrative serves no purpose other than to disturb the peace and tranquillity in the State. The public is therefore urged to disregard these false rumours and refrain from spreading unfounded and destructive reports, while we call on all and sundry to verify information from credible sources and avoid sharing sensational and baseless claims targeted at causing discord”.
She said “The Commissioner of Police in charge of Rivers State hereby reiterates that the Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of the State.
He equally exhorts residents of Rivers State to go about their lawful activities without fear as police officers and officers of other security agencies are on ground, vigilantly ensuring that peace and security are preserved at all times.”