The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested a man identified as Nwali Nwibo for allegedly circulating false information claiming that bandits and suspected Fulani herdsmen had invaded Nguzu Edda Community in Edda Local Government Area of the state.
The arrest followed what the Command described as a thorough intelligence-led investigation, which reportedly found the claim to be false.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Joshua Ukandu, and made available to journalists in Abakaliki.
According to the statement, security operatives launched an investigation after the information gained traction and generated concern among residents.
“The arrest followed a painstaking intelligence-led investigation conducted by the Command, which established the falsity of the report and led to the apprehension of the suspect,” the statement said.
The Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, CP Hope Urunwa Okafor, urged residents to verify the authenticity of information before posting, forwarding, or sharing it on social media and other communication platforms.
She warned that the dissemination of false or misleading information could create unnecessary panic, undermine public confidence, and threaten peace and public order.
The police commissioner further cautioned members of the public against engaging in activities capable of spreading fear within communities, stressing the need for the responsible use of social media.
Okafor reiterated the Command’s commitment to identifying and prosecuting individuals involved in the creation or circulation of fake news and misinformation in accordance with the law.
She also assured residents that the Police Command remains vigilant and committed to maintaining security across the state, while encouraging citizens to rely on verified information from official sources.
The Command urged members of the public to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and avoiding the spread of unconfirmed reports capable of causing tension or public unrest.