The Rivers State Police Command has dismissed a viral social media video alleging an influx of suspected herdsmen and attacks on communities in the state, describing the claims as entirely untrue.
The footage, circulated widely online, purported to show an invasion by herders said to have been repelled by some Ijaw youths. However, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the video was fabricated to stir fear and disrupt public peace.
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, Iringe-Koko said, “The attention of the Rivers State Police Command has been drawn to a viral video circulating on social media, falsely claiming Fulani herdsmen attacked communities in Rivers State and were repelled by Ijaw youths.”
She added that investigations revealed no such attacks had taken place anywhere in the state.
“These claims and reports are entirely false, misleading, and designed to incite panic. There have been no incidents or reports of Fulani herdsmen attacks in any part of Rivers State,” she said.
Describing the creators of the video as mischief-makers, she urged residents not to fall for attempts to sow tension or portray the state in a negative light.
“This fabricated narrative is a deliberate attempt to undermine the prevailing peace and stability in the state. We urge the public to disregard this misinformation and exercise restraint in sharing unverified content,” the spokesperson stated.
Iringe-Koko assured that the command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju, is working closely with other security agencies to safeguard lives and maintain order across the state.
She noted that several security measures have been strengthened, explaining that “robust patrol teams, surveillance units, and tactical squads are fully operational to respond to any emerging threats.”
The police appealed to residents to remain calm, vigilant, and rely on official communication channels for verified information.
“The public is advised to always verify information before sharing. The command remains committed to transparent and accountable policing,” Iringe-Koko added.
