The Imo State Police Command has dismissed as false a viral social media report alleging that suspected Fulani herdsmen attacked a student hostel near the Federal Polytechnic Nekede in Owerri and trapped dozens of students in a burning building.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, the command described the claim as fabricated and misleading, and urged residents to disregard the report.
The viral report claimed that suspected herdsmen set a student hostel ablaze around the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, trapping more than 80 students inside the building.
However, the police said investigations showed that the story was entirely false and did not reflect the security situation in the area.
According to the command, there was no such attack, and no incident involving students or hostels around Nekede had been reported.
“The Imo State Police Command has noted a misleading publication circulated on Facebook alleging that Fulani herdsmen set a student hostel in Nekede, Owerri, on fire, trapping over 80 students inside the burning building.
“The Command wishes to state unequivocally that the report is entirely false, misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents,” the statement said.
Residents Urged To Ignore Viral Report
The command warned against spreading unverified information capable of creating fear or disrupting public peace, stressing that false reports on social media could have serious security implications.
Police urged residents to verify every piece of information through credible and official channels before reposting or sharing it online.
The command also appealed to social media users to exercise restraint and responsibility when discussing security-related matters.
Reassuring residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property, the Imo State Police Command said it would continue to provide accurate and timely updates on security issues across the state.
The police also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities through official channels rather than relying on unverified reports circulating on social media.
According to the command, maintaining public confidence requires the responsible dissemination of information, especially on matters capable of triggering panic or public disorder.
