The Rivers State Police Command has denied reports of violence at the Government House in Port Harcourt, which allegedly involved a clash between military personnel connected to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
According to The PUNCH, the commissioner of Police Mustapha Mohammed dismissed the circulating reports as false and baseless, emphasizing the need to avoid spreading misinformation that could cause panic in the state.
A statement issued on Sunday by the Command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, clarified: “The Rivers State Police Command unequivocally refutes the unsubstantiated report currently circulating, alleging a violent altercation at the Rivers State Government House involving supposed military forces allegedly loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike and current Governor Sim Fubara.”
Mohammed stressed that the alleged confrontation and any reports of casualties involving Nigerian military personnel in the state are “a deliberate fabrication aimed at inciting fear, confusion, and unrest within Rivers State.”
The statement also denied claims that Governor Fubara had imposed a curfew or requested security operations from militant groups.
“Governor Fubara has neither ordered a curfew nor called for any form of take-over of security operations within the state by militant groups,” the statement read.
Reassuring the public of ongoing safety efforts, the Commissioner of Police declared: “The Nigeria Police Force and other security and law enforcement agencies remain in full control, actively maintaining peace and security in Rivers State and across the state.”
The police urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information. “This false narrative serves no purpose other than to disturb the peace and tranquillity in the state,” Iringe-Koko stated.
“The public is therefore urged to disregard these false rumours and refrain from spreading unfounded and destructive reports. We call on everyone to verify information from credible sources and avoid sharing sensational and baseless claims intended to create discord.”
Additionally, the Command reassured residents that security agencies are on high alert to ensure safety.
“The Commissioner of Police in charge of Rivers State hereby reiterates that the Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of the state,” the statement concluded.
