Police debunk false FCT terror alert, arrest suspect

By Ejire Folakunmi

The Nigeria Police Force has debunked a viral video circulating on social media alleging an ongoing terrorist attack in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, describing the claim as false and misleading.

In a statement, the Force said no such incident occurred, noting that the content of the video was deliberately manipulated to create panic and undermine public confidence in the security architecture of the nation’s capital.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the footage was sourced from online platforms and falsely presented to suggest a security breach in Abuja.

According to the Police, the video was designed to incite fear, spread misinformation, and disrupt public peace.

The Force confirmed the arrest of a suspect, Pam Joseph, in connection with the creation and dissemination of the content. The arrest, it said, followed credible intelligence and digital forensic investigations linking the suspect to the origin and circulation of the video.

The Police reiterated that while citizens have the right to freedom of expression, such rights do not include the spread of false information capable of threatening public order and national security.

It advised members of the public to verify information before sharing and to avoid actions that could incite fear or disorder.

The suspect is currently in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Force reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public order and national security, adding that it will continue to monitor digital platforms and take action against individuals spreading false or misleading information.