Addressing False Allegations and Ensuring Public Safety
The Adamawa Police Command and the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) have taken a firm stance against a viral social media post that claimed the Adamawa CAN Chairman was beheaded by terrorists. In a joint effort to dispel misinformation, both entities have confirmed that Rev Joel Manzo, the chairman of the Adamawa branch of CAN, is safe and unharmed.
This statement came on Saturday morning, with both the police and CAN issuing separate statements to address the growing concerns among the public. The police emphasized that the Facebook post, which alleged the killing of the CAN chairman, is entirely false, malicious, and designed to incite unrest. They described the content as “devilish” and warned that such posts could lead to unnecessary panic and tension.
The release of these statements coincided with heightened tensions in Adamawa State, particularly after the U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about potential military action in Nigeria over alleged genocide against Christians. This context has amplified fears across the country, making it all the more critical for authorities to counter false narratives.
A Clear Denial from the Police
The Adamawa Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje, issued a detailed statement addressing the controversial report. The post in question was attributed to a Facebook user known as Lionman Lioni. According to Nguroje, the report was a deliberate attempt to cause panic and religious disaffection among residents.
“The Command wishes to categorically refute this malicious claim in its entirety. There is no such incident recorded anywhere in Adamawa State,” the police stated. Nguroje also quoted the state Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Moris, who urged the public to ignore the Facebook report and avoid spreading unverified information that could disrupt peace.
In addition, the police command announced that they are launching an investigation into the source of the false publication. Their message was clear: any attempt to incite violence through the misuse of social media will not be tolerated.
CAN’s Response to the False Narrative
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) also released a statement, quoting its state chairman, Rev Joel Manzo, who declared, “I Am Safe and Alive.” The association urged the public to disregard the fake news circulating on social media that claimed the chairman had been beheaded.
According to CAN, the leadership of the Christian body in the state views such misleading sources as agents of the underworld aiming to tarnish the image of the government and security agencies. This, they argue, creates confusion in an already fragile national atmosphere.
The association further emphasized that the state CAN Chairman is in good health and continues his official engagements without any threats, fear, or intimidation.
Maintaining Peace and Stability
Both the police and CAN have reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region. They have called on citizens to remain vigilant and to rely on verified information from official channels rather than unconfirmed social media posts.
As tensions continue to rise in some parts of the country, the need for accurate information and responsible communication becomes even more crucial. Authorities are working to ensure that the public is informed and protected from the spread of harmful misinformation.
Key Takeaways
- False Claims Dismissed:Both the Adamawa Police Command and CAN have denied allegations that the CAN Chairman was beheaded.
- Police Action:Authorities have launched an investigation into the source of the false report and are determined to prosecute those involved.
- Public Appeal:Citizens are urged to avoid spreading unverified information that could destabilize the region.
- Peace and Stability:Both organizations emphasize the importance of maintaining peace and relying on credible sources of information.