Abia Govt Condemns False Reports On Umunneochi Security, Warns Against Media Misinformation

The Abia State Government has strongly condemned what it described as a deliberate campaign of misinformation surrounding the recent security situation in Umunneochi Local Government Area.

In a press release signed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, the government raised alarm over the activities of certain individuals allegedly masquerading as media professionals. According to the statement, these persons have been using obscure blog platforms and unregulated YouTube channels to circulate false narratives about a security breach in the area.

The government clarified that contrary to reports being circulated online, no casualty figures were mentioned during the recent post-Executive Council press briefing, as security agencies had not yet confirmed any. Additionally, no specific group—such as Fulani herdsmen—was blamed for the incident, as investigations are still ongoing.

The statement emphasized that Governor Alex Otti had promptly convened an emergency meeting of the State Security Council to comprehensively address the breach, underscoring the administration’s swift and proactive approach to security matters.

Since the assumption of office by Governor Otti in May 2023, the government noted, Abia State has largely remained peaceful. It credited this stability to the efforts of “Operation Crush,” a special security task force working in synergy with other law enforcement agencies to swiftly tackle threats.

The government, however, expressed dismay at what it termed an “unfortunate” attempt to mislead the public and undermine its achievements in security. It vowed not to condone “media terrorism disguised as free speech” and warned that those found responsible for spreading fake news will be prosecuted.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the Abia State Government urged residents to disregard false reports and rely only on verified information from official channels.