Police in Akwa Ibom State have reportedly detained one Akaninyene Udo, a social media activist, on charges of setting false security alarms, causing panic among locals.
According to reports, the suspect was arrested after reportedly publishing false updates online implying an imminent security concern in portions of the state.
The posts were reported to have caused needless stress and necessitated emergency responses from security personnel.
The Akwa Ibom Police spokesperson confirmed the arrest and stated that the measure was essential to prevent the spread of disinformation.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, in Uyo on Monday, the suspect, a resident of Akpautong, Esit Eket Local Government Area, who operates on social media accounts under the name “AK Philo,” was apprehended following investigations into a viral social media post in which he circulated a threat.
“The individual was arrested for circulating false information capable of breaching public peace and causing panic among residents,” police added.
The police said that investigations are still underway to uncover the full scope of the activist’s activity and whether other people were engaged in disseminating the posts.
Residents have been asked to check information from official sources before sharing it on social media, with authorities warning that anyone found guilty of disseminating false security alerts will face prosecution.