The Kebbi State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading a viral social media report alleging that a retired Assistant Controller of Customs had constructed a private airport in the Argungu forest to facilitate the smuggling of cocaine and other illicit drugs into Nigeria.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, the Command described the publication as “baseless, mischievous, and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the image of the state, the Police, and its personnel.”
CSP Abubakar said the Command views the report as an orchestrated effort to create fear among residents and undermine the morale of security operatives who have been working tirelessly to combat crime across the state.
“Such false information only serves to embolden criminal elements and disrupt ongoing security operations,” he stated.
The Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, maintaining peace, and ensuring that Kebbi State remains unsafe for criminals. It also appealed to the public to disregard the rumour and refrain from spreading unverified information.
“We urge members of the public to be cautious about sharing unverified claims on social media. Fake news does not only damage reputations but can also threaten public peace,” Abubakar warned.
The Command further reiterated its readiness to collaborate with credible media organizations to provide accurate information and combat the spread of misinformation in the state.