Police nab suspect circulating false threats in Imo communities

By EDISON Okereke

Operatives of the Imo State Police Command, following painstaking investigations, on Tuesday apprehended an individual they believe is responsible for circulating a threatening message in the Umuoba community of Irete. The message, which created significant public concern over a potential herdsmen attack, prompted an immediate and thorough investigation by the Command.

In a statement made available to Daily Nigerian Horn, the Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO) DSP Henry Okoye, says one Chidi Emma Azonibe, 35, a native of Umuelele in Irete, admitted to posting the message composed by his prophetess, Rev. Ijeoma of Assembly Church Irete, and that he, along with his brother Amanea, was instructed to disseminate it within the community.

Azonibe further alleged that the prophetess told him that she had received a divine revelation from God warning that Fulani herdsmen were planning an attack on the residents of Irete, prompting her to compose the false message as a means of alerting the community.

The threatening words, “FULANI HERDMEN WE ARE COMING WAIT FOR US AT ANYTIME ANY MOMENT NOW WAIT FOR US,” has significantly contributed to the heightened level of anxiety among local residents of Irete and Owerri metropolis. Efforts are being intensified to apprehend the alleged prophet and other suspects at large.

The suspect is currently undergoing investigation and is expected to face prosecution. The Imo State Police Command has also issued a stern warning against the spread of false news and information, stating that anyone found inciting panic or unrest will face the full wrath of the law.