The Rivers State Police Command has dismissed a viral social media video claiming that suspected herdsmen invaded parts of the state and were confronted by Ijaw youths. The Command described the reports as entirely false and intended to create unnecessary panic.
In a statement released on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, the Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the video was fabricated by individuals seeking to disturb the peace currently enjoyed in the state. She urged residents to ignore the footage and avoid circulating unverified content capable of misleading the public.
According to Iringe-Koko, no community in Rivers State has reported any attack or incursion by herdsmen, and there is no intelligence supporting such claims. She stressed that the narrative was deliberately crafted to cause fear and damage the state’s reputation.
Part of the statement read:
“The attention of the Rivers State Police Command has been drawn to a viral social media video falsely alleging an attack by Fulani herdsmen in Rivers State. These claims are entirely false, misleading, and aimed at inciting panic. There have been no such incidents in any part of the state.”
The Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, noting that security has been strengthened through operational patrols, surveillance teams, and tactical units.
Iringe-Koko added that under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju, the Command remains focused on transparency, accountability, and maintaining peace. She advised the public to stay calm, remain vigilant, and always verify information through official sources before sharing it online.
