The Kogi State Police Command has dismissed reports of an alleged bandit invasion in the Zango, Crusher, and Felele communities in Lokoja metropolis.
Commissioner Warns Against Spreading False Information
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Kankarofi, described the rumours, which caused panic among residents, as “fake news” designed to create unnecessary tension in the state.
Reports of a supposed invasion had prompted the closure of several schools, with parents rushing to pick up their children. Markets also witnessed stampedes as residents reacted to the false alarm.
In a statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, CSP William Ovye-Aya, Kankarofi urged the public to ignore the rumour and assured them of adequate security.
He further warned:
“Anyone found guilty of spreading false alarms will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.”
The CP also reaffirmed the deployment of tactical teams, including the Police Mobile Force and counter-terrorism units, to key locations to ensure the safety of residents.
Residents Urged to Remain Calm
Kankarofi encouraged citizens to continue their daily activities and report any suspicious behaviour to the authorities.
He stressed that security is a shared responsibility and urged everyone to cooperate with law enforcement to maintain peace.
Lokoja LGA Chairman Confirms Peace
The Executive Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area, Comr. Abdullahi Adamu, also dismissed the reports as fake news.
In a statement signed on Thursday, Adamu said:
“It’s not true that there were alleged attacks in Felele, Crusher, or other parts of Lokoja. These rumours are a figment of the imagination of mischief makers. Lokoja has never been this peaceful.”
He called on residents to remain calm and disregard any circulating false information about bandit activities.