The Rivers State Police Command has debunked reports claiming a shooting incident occurred between rival political factions at the Peoples Democratic Party secretariat in Port Harcourt.
While acknowledging the internal tensions within the party, the police called the reports of an armed confrontation “false and misleading.”
Multiple online platforms had circulated stories suggesting that supporters from opposing PDP factions engaged in a gun battle at the party’s secretariat.
However, in a statement released on Sunday, the State Police Command Spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, dismissed the claims, labeling them a deliberate attempt to incite fear.
“The Rivers State Police Command is aware of a recent news report circulating across various online platforms, alleging a gun duel between conflicting political groups at the PDP Secretariat on Aba Road, Port Harcourt,” the statement read.
“We wish to categorically inform the general public that this report is entirely false and misleading. At no point was such an incident reported to or witnessed by the Police.
“Personnel of the Rivers State Police Command are strategically deployed across key locations in the state, and our officers were promptly dispatched to the PDP Secretariat.
“Upon investigation, it was confirmed that the report was a false alarm, raised by mischief makers and troublemakers with the intent to cause panic.
“The Rivers State Police Command strongly warns individuals or groups involved in spreading false information to desist from heating the polity and creating unnecessary tension.
“We remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents in the state, and we will continue to work tirelessly to maintain law and order while securing lives and property.
“We call on the public to disregard such baseless rumours and trust in the professionalism and dedication of the Police in maintaining peace within the state,” it added
The police also reassured residents of their ongoing vigilance and urged the public to rely on credible sources for information.
