The Kano State Police Command has arrested a suspect over the circulations of alleged inciting audio and video clips on social media capable of causing public disorder and panic among residents in the state.
The state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, disclosed this during a joint press briefing with the Commissioner for Information and Home Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, held at the police command headquarters in Kano on Thursday.
Bakori said the police intercepted reports of circulating audio and video materials containing statements capable of inciting unrest and spreading fear among residents.
He explained that operatives of the command swiftly carried out a sting operation which led to the arrest of the suspect, who is currently undergoing interrogation.
“The command views the inflammatory statements very seriously, and the suspect will face the full weight of the law at the end of investigations,” the police commissioner said.
He condemned the creation and dissemination of such content, warning individuals involved in spreading false or inciting information to desist immediately.
According to him, anyone found promoting hate speech, incitement or violence would be arrested, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Bakori assured residents that adequate security measures had been put in place to forestall any breakdown of law and order, adding that the command was working closely with other security agencies to monitor developments and respond promptly to any incident.
He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency numbers.
The commissioner also appealed to community leaders, religious leaders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to promote peace and mutual understanding across the state.
Speaking at the briefing, Waiya said the press conference was convened to address rumours circulating on social media suggesting plans by certain groups that could disrupt commercial and social activities in the state.
He described the rumours as misinformation designed to create unnecessary tension among residents.
The commissioner noted that the state government was collaborating closely with security agencies to counter fake news and ensure that peace and stability in the state were not compromised.
Waiya reaffirmed that the government of Governor Abba Yusuf remained committed to protecting the lives and property of all residents irrespective of ethnic, religious or cultural differences.
Both officials assured residents that there was no cause for alarm and that the state government and security agencies were fully prepared to maintain law and order.
