The Enugu State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading a viral social media video alleging that herdsmen killed several people at Awgu Junction along the Enugu Port Harcourt Expressway.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Command said there was no evidence to support the claim, describing the narrative as a deliberate attempt to create fear, panic and tension among residents of the state.
Police spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said preliminary investigations conducted by the Command revealed that the incident did not occur as portrayed in the circulating video.
“The Enugu State Police Command is aware of a viral video circulating on social media alleging that persons were killed by herdsmen at Awgu Junction, along Enugu/Port Harcourt Expressway in the State. The Command unequivocally refutes the claim and states that the narrative being circulated is false, misleading, and intended to cause unnecessary fear, panic, and tension among residents,” Ndukwe stated.
According to him, the Command has not received any report nor found any credible evidence to substantiate the allegation.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the incident did not occur as portrayed in the video, and there is no report or credible evidence available to the Command to substantiate the allegation,” he said.
The police condemned the spread of unverified and inflammatory information, warning that such actions could undermine public peace, security and harmonious coexistence among residents.
“The Command condemns the deliberate spread of unverified and inflammatory information capable of undermining public peace, security, and harmonious coexistence among the people,” Ndukwe added.
He urged members of the public to disregard the video and refrain from sharing false information, warning that those responsible for creating or disseminating misinformation could face legal consequences.
“Individuals and groups involved in the deliberate creation or dissemination of misinformation are warned to desist forthwith, as the Command will not hesitate to invoke relevant provisions of the law against anyone found culpable,” he warned.
The Command further reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across Enugu State under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Mamman Bitrus Giwa.
“The Command reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and ensuring sustained peace, security, and public order across Enugu State,” the statement said.
Residents were advised to verify information through credible and official channels and to promptly report any security concerns to the police and other relevant security agencies.
