The Kebbi State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading a viral social media report alleging that a retired Assistant Controller of Customs had constructed a private airport in the Argungu forest to facilitate the smuggling of cocaine and other illicit drugs into Nigeria.
In a statement issued to journalists in Birnin Kebbi, the State Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, described the report as “baseless, mischievous, and a calculated attempt to tarnish the image of the State and its security agencies.”
According to the statement, the Command condemned the publication, stressing that it was designed to instill fear, mislead the public, and undermine the relentless efforts of the Police and other security agencies in maintaining law and order across Kebbi State.
“Such false publication is intended to create unnecessary fear, embolden unscrupulous elements, and undermine ongoing security operations in the State,” the statement read.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, maintaining peace, and ensuring that Kebbi State does not become a safe haven for criminals.
It further urged members of the public to disregard the rumour and warned those engaged in spreading fake news to desist, noting that the consequences of such actions affect not only individuals but the entire society.
The statement concluded by emphasizing that the Police Command would continue to collaborate with credible media practitioners to enlighten the public on security developments and combat the spread of misinformation in the State.
