The Kebbi State Police Command has strongly refuted a viral social media narrative about a Christian child allegedly held in a Muslim-based orphanage in Birnin Kebbi. The Command has labelled the story “mischievous and baseless,” stating it is a deliberate attempt to tarnish the police force’s image.
The fake story, circulating on social media, claimed that a four-year-old boy named Uzochuku, who was allegedly kidnapped and sold, was found by a purported corp member in a Muslim-run orphanage. The post further alleged that police had arrested the kidnappers, charged them in court, and placed other Christian children in the same orphanage.
In a press statement, the Police Command categorically denied the claims. They condemned the publication as a “calculated attempt to tarnish the good image of the Command and undermine the integrity, unwavering commitment, and professionalism of its officers in their relentless efforts to combat crimes and criminality in Kebbi State.”
The Command is appealing to the public to disregard the rumour. It also issued a stern warning to those who create and spread such false information, emphasising the negative impact it can have on both the police and society at large.
The statement concluded that the Police Command will continue to collaborate with “genuine media professionals” to keep the public informed about police activities and combat the spread of fake news.
