By Uko Okon
The Akwa Ibom Police Command said it has arrested five suspects who fabricated and circulated fake news report on social media in the state.
The suspects recently shared on social media an alleged kidnaping incident involving students of Oron secondary school in Oron LGA of the state.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Azare who disclosed this during a security meeting with Youth Presidents and Youth Leaders drawn from the 31 LGAs on Thursday, said the report was fake and the suspects have been charged to court.
Condemning the actions, he said their actions are “reckless and dangerous, capable of inciting panic and undermining public confidence.”
He assured the public that the Command “will continue to take decisive action against anyone who spreads misinformation or attempts to destabilize the peace of the state.”
Azare called on youth leaders to champion truth, promote responsible social media use, and counter false narratives capable of disrupting public order.
The CP further encouraged stronger collaboration with Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to ensure early detection of threats and swift resolution of emerging issues.
Commending the youth leaders for their to the Command, he noted “their responsible conduct, intelligence sharing, and timely interventions prevented several potential crises and contributed significantly to the Command’s operational successes in 2025.”
The CP also appreciated the Paramount Rulers for “their fatherly guidance and the Akwa Ibom State Government for its continuous support to the security infrastructure of the state.”
He urged the youth leaders to continue to prioritize dialogue over confrontation, especially in engagements with investors, contractors, and development partners operating within their communities.
On the issue of government directives on masquerade display, He said that “any community wishing to hold masquerade activities must first seek formal permission from the Commissioner of Police, upon which the Police Command will provide adequate security to ensure peaceful and orderly conduct.”
He cautioned that unauthorized masquerade outings will not be tolerated and urged the youth leaders to sensitize their communities accordingly.
The CP also issued a strong warning against jungle justice, describing the act as unlawful, barbaric, and capable of triggering widespread violence.
In their separate responds, the youth leaders and community representatives unanimously appreciated the Commissioner of Police for his good leadership, maintaining peace/orderliness and tight security in the State.
They equally promised to cooperate and support the Police in all possible ways the youths can be of help to the security of the State.
