The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading reports that armed men raided a students’ lodge and abducted 15 students in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area of the state.
A local tabloid had reported that unknown gunmen invaded a student residence in Ikot Ekpene, abducted 15 students, and carted away valuable property. The report, which quickly went viral, sparked widespread concern among residents and parents across the state.
However, in a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the command described the publication as “entirely misleading” and clarified that no abduction took place.
“The attention of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has been drawn to misleading publications in the media that armed men raided a students’ lodge, abducted 15 students, and carted away valuable properties in Ikot Ekpene,” the statement read.
“The command wishes to categorically state that the incident was not an abduction by unknown gunmen and no student was abducted from the lodge.”
According to the police, the operation in question was a lawfully sanctioned exercise conducted by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from the agency’s Uyo Zonal Office.
DSP John explained that the police had received a distress call around 4:30 a.m. on October 24, 2025, alleging an armed robbery incident at Ikot Uboh Village, Ikot Ekpene.
“Upon receiving the distress call, police teams were immediately mobilised to the scene. On arrival, the officers professionally engaged the supposed threat and established that the operatives at the location were EFCC officers carrying out a sanctioned operation,” she stated.
The police spokesperson further confirmed that some persons were arrested by the EFCC during the operation, but none were kidnapped as claimed in earlier reports.
The command urged journalists and media organisations to always verify sensitive security information before publication to avoid spreading panic or misinformation.
“While we acknowledge the vital role of the press in society, we urge journalists and media houses to cross-check facts with the police command before publishing stories of this nature, as inaccurate reporting is capable of causing unnecessary panic,” the statement added.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, commended his officers for their professionalism and restraint, noting that their quick response prevented a potential security mishap.
“CP Azare also urges all law enforcement agencies to always notify and synergise with the police as the lead security agency in the state when carrying out operations within our Area of Responsibility (AOR) to prevent such mix-ups,” the statement continued.
The commissioner assured residents that the police command remains committed to maintaining peace and protecting lives and property across the state.
“Our doors are always open to journalists and members of the public who seek to verify any security-related information. The command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors in Akwa Ibom State,” the statement concluded.