The Imo State Police Command has dismissed as false a viral social media report claiming that suspected herdsmen attacked and set a student hostel on fire near the Federal Polytechnic Nekede in Owerri.
Police described the allegation as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic, insisting that no such incident occurred in the area.
The rumour, which circulated widely on Facebook, claimed that more than 80 students were trapped after a hostel was allegedly set ablaze by suspected herdsmen around the Federal Polytechnic Nekede community.
Reacting to the report on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, said the publication was entirely fabricated and urged residents not to spread unverified information.
According to him, the false report has the potential to create fear, incite panic and disrupt public order.
“The Imo State Police Command has noted a misleading publication circulated on Facebook alleging that Fulani herdsmen set a student hostel in Nekede, Owerri, on fire, trapping over 80 students inside the burning building.
“The command wishes to state unequivocally that the report is entirely false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents,” the statement read.
The command advised residents to verify the authenticity of information through credible and official sources before sharing it on social media or other platforms.
Police also warned against the circulation of false reports capable of escalating tension within communities, stressing that misinformation could have serious consequences for public safety.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the Imo State Police Command assured residents that it would continue to provide timely and accurate information on security matters across the state.
