The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom, Waheed Ayilara, has warned against spreading of fake news during the nationwide protest period to avoid unnecessary panic.
The Police commissioner stated this in a statement released by the police public relations officer (PPRO), ASP Timfon John, in Uyo on Friday.
The statement further reads “The attention of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has been drawn to information in circulation that protesters have blocked Itak Junction and are causing destruction including damage to vehicles.
“We wish to categorically state that the information is false and was only aimed at causing unnecessary unrest and panic within the state.
“The command wishes to state that, Akwa Ibom State remain Peaceful.
The statement further revealed that the incident that was purported to be protest was the arrest of one Michael Edet Effa who was suspected to be a ritualist.
“The villagers threw properties suspected to be charm out of his rented apartment while doing so, names of some individuals who died in the village were seen been tied to different charms.
“Immediately, the Command swung into action and took the suspect to the state Criminal investigation department to prevent been lynched”.
