The Imo State Police Command has arrested one Chidi Emma Azonibe for causing panic among residents of Umuoba Community in Irete by pasting a notice of a proposed attack by “Fulani herdsmen.”
Residents of Umuoba in Irete, Owerri West local government area of Imo State were on Monday shocked to see a warning notice of a proposed attack by Fulani Herdsmen on residents as pasted on gates and walls.
Police spokesperson in the state, DSP Henry Okoye disclosed that Azonibe was arrested after thorough investigation about the notice.
Azonibe, alongside his brother, Amanea was alleged to have circulated the notice following an instruction from a prophetess identified as Ijeoma, who said she was instructed to publicize the false alarm after a divine revelation from God.
“Operatives of the Imo State Police Command, following painstaking investigations, on 11/02/2025 apprehended an individual responsible for circulating a threatening message in the Umuoba community of Irete.
“The message, which created significant public concern over a potential herdsmen attack, prompted an immediate and thorough investigation by the Command.
“Mr. Chidi Emma Azonibe, 35, a native of Umuelele in Irete, admitted to posting the message. He stated that the message was composed by his prophetess, Rev. Ijeoma of Assembly Church Irete, and that he, along with his brother Amanea, was instructed to disseminate it within the community.
“Mr. Azonibe further alleged that the prophetess told him that she had received a divine revelation from God warning that Fulani herdsmen were planning an attack on the residents of Irete, prompting her to compose the false message as a means of alerting the community.
“The threatening words, “FULANI HERDMEN, WE ARE COMING WAIT FOR US AT ANYTIME ANY MOMENT NOW WAIT FOR US,” has significantly contributed to the heightened level of anxiety among local residents of Irete and Owerri metropolis,” Okoye said.
He added that efforts are being intensified to apprehend the supposed prophetess and other suspects at large.
Meanwhile, Okoye said the suspect is currently undergoing investigation and is expected to be prosecuted for his action.
He however warned that the Imo Police Command had zero tolerance for dissemination of false news and misinformation, adding that anyone found inciting panic or unrest will face the full wrath of the law.
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