Reports flying around social media on Tuesday claiming that someone tried to assassinate Naval Lieutenant Ahmed Yerima have now been shut down by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command.
Yerima, the same officer who recently clashed with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over a disputed land location, has been trending online for days. So when the rumour of an alleged attack surfaced, many Nigerians quickly picked it up, but the police say nothing like that happened.
According to the FCT Police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, the Command has no single report of any attempt on Yerima’s life. She described the viral posts as “false information,” adding that the public should ignore them so the situation doesn’t trigger unnecessary fear around the capital.
The Police Command also appealed to Abuja residents to stop spreading unverified claims, especially sensitive ones that can cause tension. They advised the public to stay alert and report suspicious movements the proper way, through the nearest police station, not social media.
In short, the police say the story of an attempted attack on Lt. Ahmed Yerima is not true and should be disregarded.
The statement reads in part:
“The attention of the FCT Police Command has been drawn to publications circulating on social media alleging an attempted ass@ssination on Lt. Ahmed Yerima. The Command wishes to categorically state that no such incident has been reported or recorded anywhere within the Federal Capital Territory.”
The FCT Police Command advised the public to disregard the circulating claims, calling the information “false” and urging people to desist from spreading unverified claims that could cause unnecessary panic.
The Command also encouraged all residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest Police Division.
