By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi State Police Command has dismissed a rumour circulating on social media alleging an impending bandit attack in Kogi East Senatorial District. The Command said on Monday in Lokoja that the report is false, unverifiable, and capable of creating unnecessary panic among residents.Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, said in a statement that there is no credible intelligence suggesting any planned attack. He urged the public to disregard the rumour and rely on verified information from official security channels.According to the statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Ovye Aya, the Command remains fully committed to maintaining peace and safety across all parts of the state.“
The Command wishes to inform the general public that such reports are unverifiable and do not constitute any element of truth,” the statement read. Aya noted that the police are taking the matter seriously and have strengthened security deployments to reassure residents.CP Kankarofi has ordered the immediate deployment of tactical teams—including the Police Mobile Force, Counterterrorism Unit, Quick Response Squad, and Intelligence Operatives—to strategic locations throughout Kogi State. The aim, he said, is to deter criminal elements and respond swiftly to any emerging security threat.
Aya added that additional operational assets have been mobilised to monitor critical areas and address any unforeseen challenges. He emphasised that the Command’s proactive measures are designed to ensure the safety of lives and property.The police also appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information. According to the PPRO, misinformation can heighten tension and undermine security efforts.
“We urge the public to verify information through official sources before sharing. False claims can cause unnecessary panic,” the statement said.
The Command further encouraged the public to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements or activities. Aya stressed that effective security management requires collective action from all stakeholders.“If you notice anything suspicious, please report without hesitation. Security is a shared responsibility,” he added.The Police Command provided its emergency contact number—07038329084—for rapid response to distress situations.With the reassurance from the Kogi State Police Command, residents are urged to remain vigilant and support ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability.
