Imo Police Debunk Viral Claim of Student Hostel Fire in Nekede

The Imo State Police Command has dismissed as false a viral social media report alleging that suspected Fulani herdsmen attacked and set a student hostel on fire in Nekede, Owerri, trapping more than 80 students inside the building.

The command described the claim as entirely fabricated, urging residents to disregard the report and avoid spreading misinformation capable of creating fear and public anxiety.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, said investigations by the command confirmed that no such incident occurred anywhere in Nekede.

According to the police spokesperson, the Facebook post making the rounds was false, misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among members of the public.

"The report alleging that suspected Fulani herdsmen set a student hostel ablaze in Nekede, trapping over 80 students, is completely false and did not occur," the statement said.

The command cautioned residents against sharing unverified reports on social media, noting that false information can fuel panic, heighten tension and undermine public confidence in security agencies.

It stressed that misinformation, particularly on security-related issues, has the potential to incite fear, provoke unrest and disrupt public order.

The police therefore urged members of the public to verify the authenticity of any information through credible and official channels before forwarding or publishing it on any platform.

According to the command, responsible use of social media is essential to maintaining peace and preventing the spread of false narratives capable of misleading the public.

The Imo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, assuring residents that it would continue to provide prompt, accurate and verified information on security matters.

The command also encouraged citizens to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies by reporting genuine security concerns through the appropriate official channels.

It reiterated that public cooperation and responsible information sharing remain critical to sustaining peace and strengthening security across Imo State.