…says state remains calm, peaceful
By Ime Silas
UYO — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has assured residents that the state remains calm and peaceful, debunking reports circulating in some quarters alleging that shooting incidents occurred in connection with recent public disturbances.
In a press release dated 1/10/2026 and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Timfon John, LLB, Anipr, for the Commissioner of Police, the Command addressed the rumours head-on.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command wishes to address reports circulating in some quarters alleging that shooting incidents occurred in the State in connection with recent public disturbances,” the statement opened.
The Command wished to state clearly that no shooting incident was recorded in connection with the incident under reference.
According to the Command, “Police personnel deployed to maintain law and order acted with professionalism and restraint, and no firearm was discharged by Police officers during the operation.”
It further clarified that, “Furthermore, no gunshot injury has been recorded or reported to the Command.”
While debunking the shooting claims, the Command confirmed arrests were made for public order offences.
“However, eight persons were arrested in connection with acts capable of causing a breach of public peace and for allegedly disregarding lawful security directives. The arrested persons are currently assisting the Police with ongoing investigations, and anyone found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” DSP John stated.
The statement also disclosed the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, to all operational commanders.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders and operational personnel across the State to remain vigilant and continue to maintain the peace with the highest level of professionalism, restraint and respect for the rights of citizens.”
CP Azare, according to the release, “has also warned that while the Command will continue to protect the lawful rights of every resident, no individual or group will be permitted to hide under any guise to cause violence, intimidate members of the public or disrupt the prevailing peace in Akwa Ibom State.”
The police urged residents not to panic over unverified reports.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities. They are also advised to disregard rumours and unverified reports capable of causing unnecessary fear and tension,” the Command said.
The Command particularly appealed to the media to be responsible in reporting security matters.
“The Command particularly appeals to media practitioners, bloggers, social media users and content creators to verify security-related information through appropriate channels before publication.”
Restating its position for emphasis, the Command said, “For the avoidance of doubt, Akwa Ibom State remains calm. No shooting incident was recorded, no gunshot injury was reported, and eight persons were arrested in connection with the disturbance.”
It concluded by reaffirming that, “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command remains committed to the protection of lives and property and will continue to take all lawful measures necessary to preserve peace and security across the State.”
