The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed as misleading a viral video purportedly showing the recent arrest of armed Fulani men in Ikorodu, clarifying that the footage is from an incident that occurred more than three years ago.
The Command said the video, which has been widely circulated on social media as a recent development, does not reflect the current security situation in Ikorodu or any other part of Lagos State.
The police warned that the recirculation of outdated content as a fresh incident was capable of creating unnecessary panic, fear and apprehension among residents.
Confirming the position of the command, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, urged members of the public to disregard the video and avoid spreading unverified information.
”The video currently circulating on social media platforms depicting the arrest of some Fulani men allegedly found in possession of arms and ammunition in Ikorodu is an old clip of an incident that occurred over three years ago and does not represent the current security reality in Lagos State,” Adebisi said.
She added that presenting the old footage as a recent occurrence was misleading and capable of causing public anxiety.
”The recirculation of outdated content as a recent incident is misleading and capable of creating unnecessary panic, fear and apprehension among residents. We urge the public to disregard the video and refrain from sharing unverified information,” Adebisi stated.
The police spokesperson also cautioned social media users and content creators against disseminating false or alarmist reports capable of undermining public peace.
”The command warns against the spread of false, unverified and sensational information capable of causing public disorder. Anyone found deliberately spreading misinformation or fake news will be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” Adebisi said.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, has directed the sustained deployment of personnel and operational assets to strategic locations, black spots, and entry and exit points across the state.
According to Adebisi, the proactive measures are being implemented in collaboration with other security and safety agencies to ensure the continued protection of lives and property.
”Adequate security measures have been emplaced across the state. Residents are encouraged to go about their lawful activities without fear, as the Police and other security agencies remain committed to ensuring their safety,” she said.
The Command further appealed to residents to support ongoing security efforts by providing timely and credible information on suspicious activities within their communities.
”We encourage members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, movements or activities. Timely and actionable information from residents remains invaluable in preventing crime and enhancing public safety,” Adebisi added.
The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order across the state and urged residents to rely only on verified information from official sources when seeking updates on security matters.
