- Safiu Kehinde
Imo State Police Command has, on Tuesday, dismissed alleged attack on motorists by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) separatists enforcing sit-at-home order.
Reacting to a video of the alleged attack which surfaced on X yesterday, the Command debunked the attack as it claimed the incident captured in the video occured in 2022 at Okigwe area of the state.
This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Command’s spokesperson, Okoye Henry.
The Force labelled the video as misleading and a calculated attempt to by mischief makers to instill unnecessary fear and anxiety in the state.
While urging the residents to remain calm, the Command warned against the spread of misinformation and fake news.
The statement read in part; “The Imo State Police Command is issuing this statement in response to a recent viral video showing vehicles set ablaze by individuals affiliated with IPOB/ESN enforcing an unlawful sit-at-home order in Okigwe on 21/10/2024.
“The Command confirms that this video is misleading; the incident depicted actually occurred in 2022.
“Its recirculation is a calculated attempt by mischief makers to instill unnecessary fear and anxiety in the State.
“The Command therefore, warn against the spread of mischief, misinformation, and fake news, emphasizing that such actions are harmful and punishable by law and any individuals found guilty of false information will be prosecuted.
“To this end, the Commissioner of Police Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma urges the good people of Imo State, particularly the residents of Okigwe to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear as the Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, is committed to combating misinformation and ensuring a safe environment for all and sundry in the State.”
Meanwhile, the voice behind the video could be heard demanding for the release of the detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, vowing to continue the mayhem as long as Kanu is still held in custody.