Police arrest, charged five alleged vendors of fake news in Akwa Ibom

By Isaiah Eka

Five suspects have been arrested over recent circulation of a false information alleging invasion and kidnapping of students by bandits at a secondary school in the Oron area of Akwa Ibom State.

Akwa Ibom Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare disclosed this on Thursday during a strategic meeting with youth leaders in Uyo.

Azare said that the suspects had already been charged to court to serve as a deterrent to those who may be nursing the intention to circulate fake news”

The Akwa Ibom Police Commissioner said that the information which was circulated on the social media was ‘untrue and unfair to the society’

“Their actions were reckless and capable of causing panic, and disrupting public peace,” he said.

Azare said that the strategic youth meeting aimed to reaffirm the collective commitment of the police to collaborate with stakeholders towards promoting peace, law and order in the state.

“We are committed to safeguarding peace, strengthening unity and upholding the security structure that has made Akwa Ibom peaceful,” he said.

He urged the youth leaders to stand as strong voices for the promotion of truth, peace and responsibility.

“Use your positions to counter fake news wherever it arises. Encourage your community members to verify information before sharing.

“In an age where misinformation spreads quickly, your leadership role to stabilise public perception is very critical,” he said.

He further urged the youth to embrace dialogue as a primary tool of engagement, especially in dealing with investors, contractors and development partners.

“Dialogue builds progress, violence destroys opportunities. Let your leadership reflect maturity, foresight and strategic thinking,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

IE/AZU