The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has strongly refuted circulating reports alleging that shooting incidents occurred in the state during a recent political march that was intercepted by security operatives.
Addressing the rumors in an official statement, the Command clarified that its personnel deployed to maintain law and order acted with utmost professionalism and restraint, emphasizing that no firearms were discharged at any point during the operation.
Authorities confirmed that no gunshot injuries have been recorded or reported to any police facility across the state.
However, the intervention led to the arrest of eight individuals for allegedly defying lawful security directives after the Obi-Kwankwaso movement proceeded with a march against established instructions.
Police stressed that the enforcement was aimed at preventing a breakdown of law and order rather than restricting legitimate civic engagement.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has subsequently directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and tactical commanders across the state to remain vigilant.
He instructed operational personnel to sustain peace while maintaining a high level of professionalism, restraint, and strict respect for the fundamental rights of all citizens.
Issuing a stern warning, the Commissioner stated that while the Command remains dedicated to protecting the lawful rights of every resident, no individual or group will be permitted to hide under any guise to cause violence, intimidate the public, or disrupt the peace currently enjoyed in Akwa Ibom State.
He assured residents that security forces are in firm control of the situation and fully prepared to safeguard lives and property.
In the wake of the incident, the public has been urged to remain calm, go about their lawful daily activities, and disregard unverified rumors designed to create unnecessary fear and tension.
The Command specifically appealed to media practitioners, bloggers, and social media content creators to exercise caution and verify all security-related information through appropriate official channels before publication.
