The police have dismissed as false, a viral message alleging the presence of 79 terrorists in the Lugbe area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
A report had emerged that the police had issued a critical public announcement, regarding heightened security measures in the Lugbe axis, and surrounding areas.
According to the announcement, approximately 79 suspected terrorists have taken refuge in the area, following an intense chase by security agents.
In response to the security threat, a curfew was said to had been imposed effective 8:00pm on March 2, 2025, until further notice.
However, in an official statement issued on Sunday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, described the message as a fabrication, aimed at inciting panic, and destabilizing peace in the FCT.
He clarified that intelligence reports from the force intelligence teams, and other security agencies have found no evidence of terrorists taking refuge in the area.
“The message, purportedly signed by my office, is entirely false, and should be disregarded,” Adejobi stated.
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The police urged citizens to refrain from spreading unverified information, and to rely only on official sources, including the Nigeria Police Force’s verified social media handles—@PoliceNG on X, @ngpolice on Facebook, and @nigeriapoliceforce on Instagram.
Furthermore, the police emphasized its commitment to ensuring public safetyz and maintaining security in the FCT and across the country.
Adejobi encouraged the public to remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the official emergency contact lines.
The police warned against the spread of misinformation, noting that such actions could cause unnecessary fear and tension.
It reassured the public of the dedication of the police to protect lives and property, urging everyone to verify security-related alerts before sharing them.