A’Ibom Police nab influencer over security scare on social media

By Uko Etim

UYO — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested one Akaninyene Udo, a resident of Akpautong in Esit Eket Local Government Area, over a viral social media post that caused a security scare in Eket and its environs.

The suspect, who operates on Facebook under the name “AK Philo”, was apprehended after circulating a threatening message that read “Eket get ready for us” alongside an image of an armed bandit.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, who disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Uyo, said the post generated fear and widespread panic among residents, prompting investigations that led to the suspect’s arrest.

“The Command wishes to assure the good people of Akwa Ibom State that there is no cause for alarm. The security situation across the State remains calm, stable, and under control.”

“In line with its commitment to preserving public peace and order, the Command has arrested one suspect, Akaninyene Udo, a male resident of Akpautong, Esit Eket Local Government Area, who operates on social media under the name “AK Philo.”

“The suspect was apprehended following investigations into a viral social media post in which he circulated a threatening message stating, “Eket get ready for us,” accompanied by an image of an armed bandit. The post generated fear and widespread concern among residents of Eket and its environs.”

According to her, investigation into the matter has been concluded, and the suspect will soon be charged to court.

She added that efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other individuals who may have collaborated in spreading the inciting content.

John stated that the Command has warned residents against creating, publishing, or sharing unverified security alerts and fake news on social media, noting that such actions constitute criminal offences.

While advising the public to verify security-related information through official channels before sharing, she stressed that “Offenders will be traced, arrested, and prosecuted”.

John urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, and to report suspicious activities promptly to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.

The police assured that Akwa Ibom remains peaceful and that security agencies will continue to deploy proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.

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