Rivers: Police Debunk Arson Report On Wike’s Residence

The Rivers State Police Command has refuted reports on social media that some suspected arsonists attacked the private residence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike in Port Harcourt.

Some reports on social media had alleged that a riot broke out in the Rivers State capital, leading to the burning down of Wike’s residence and vehicles parked inside the compound.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, Grace Iringe-Koko, in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Monday however, described the reports “as entirely false, baseless, and a deliberate attempt by mischief makers to incite unrest and spread fear among law-abiding residents.”

The Command categorically maintained that there was no record of any such incident, stressing that normalcy prevails across the state.

“The general public is urged to disregard these unfounded claims, which are clearly intended to cause panic and destabilise the relative peace and security enjoyed by the good people of Rivers State,” the statement added.

It further sternly warned those responsible for spreading such incendiary falsehoods to desist from engaging in activities capable of inciting public disorder.

The Command warned that the full weight of the law will be brought to bear on individuals or groups found guilty of spreading misinformation or attempting to disrupt the peace in any form.

“The Rivers State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. We urge members of the public to rely on credible sources for information and to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies,” the PPRO said, urging citizens to remain calm and go about their lawful activities without fear.