The Kano State Police Command has swiftly debunked reports circulating on social media claiming that an 18-seater bus carrying Igbo travelers was attacked, resulting in fatalities. The police described the story as “false and misleading,” urging the public to disregard the rumors and refrain from spreading unverified information that could lead to panic and unrest.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer for Kano State, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, highlighted that the information making the rounds was not true. The police have already begun an investigation into the origin of the fake news and assured the public that appropriate actions will be taken against those found responsible for the misleading reports.
The viral rumor that sparked the uproar claimed that a bus filled with Igbo passengers traveling through Kano was attacked by unknown assailants. According to the circulating reports, the attack resulted in the deaths of several passengers, causing widespread fear and tension, especially among the Igbo community.
However, in the official statement, the Kano State Police dismissed the claims, calling them fabricated and aimed at causing unnecessary panic. The police spokesperson, SP Kiyawa, also appealed to the public not to spread unverified information that could stoke ethnic tension and disturb the peace in the state.
“We urge all members of the public to disregard this fake news and refrain from sharing unverified stories, misinformation, and hate speeches that can cause harm, panic, and unrest,” SP Kiyawa stated.
The police also reassured the residents of Kano State that the security forces are committed to maintaining law and order, regardless of the ethnic or religious backgrounds of its citizens. The police emphasized that all residents, including travelers from various parts of the country, are protected under the law and have the right to move freely without fear.
“The Kano State Police Command is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents, regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds,” the statement read.
The police also made it clear that the incident reported on social media had no basis in reality and was likely intended to create unrest. With tensions running high, the command sought to calm public fears and foster a sense of unity in the state.
In response to the circulation of this harmful rumor, the police have launched an investigation to trace the origin of the fake news. According to the statement, the police will take necessary legal actions against those found responsible for spreading false information.
“The Kano State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the source of this fake news and will take appropriate measures to bring those responsible to justice,” SP Kiyawa confirmed.
As part of their investigation, the police have asked the public to assist by reporting any suspicious activities or individuals involved in spreading false information. The police also provided emergency numbers through which residents can reach out to report such issues.
This false report comes on the heels of an incident in Edo State, where 16 northerners traveling to Kano were tragically killed by local vigilantes who mistook them for kidnappers. This incident sparked outrage, particularly in northern Nigeria, and heightened ethnic tensions. The vigilante attack in Edo State was a tragic mistake, as the victims were innocent travelers who were wrongly identified.
In the wake of this tragedy, several rumors began circulating about similar incidents occurring in other parts of the country, including the alleged attack in Kano. While the police in Kano have dismissed these rumors, it is clear that the emotional impact of the Edo incident has contributed to heightened sensitivities, especially in the context of ethnic relations.
In this volatile environment, the spread of fake news can be particularly damaging, as it can escalate tensions and lead to further violence. The Kano State Police’s response underscores the importance of verifying information before sharing it and the role of the public in maintaining peace and harmony.
The spread of fake news on social media has become a significant challenge in Nigeria, especially during times of political or ethnic tension. Misinformation can quickly go viral, leading to mass panic and the potential for violence. The authorities have repeatedly warned against the dangers of false information, urging Nigerians to be more discerning when consuming news, particularly from unofficial sources.
The Kano State Police Command’s statement is part of a broader effort by the Nigerian authorities to curb the negative impact of fake news. In recent years, the government has emphasized the need for Nigerians to rely on credible news sources and avoid falling prey to rumors that can destabilize the country.
As the country grapples with a range of challenges, including ethnic tensions, security concerns, and political instability, the role of responsible journalism and media consumption has never been more critical. The police have called on Nigerians to support efforts to maintain peace and unity by being cautious about the information they share, particularly in sensitive times.
The Kano State Police have called on the people of the state to cooperate fully with security agencies in the effort to maintain peace and order. The police urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may threaten the security of the state.
“The police are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of all citizens, but we need the cooperation of the public,” SP Kiyawa added. “By working together, we can ensure that Kano remains peaceful and secure for all its residents.”
The police also reminded the public of the importance of community solidarity in times of crisis. By avoiding the spread of false information and acting responsibly, residents can help prevent unnecessary panic and contribute to the overall stability of the state.
