The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 35-year-old man, Chidi Azonibe, for allegedly spreading a false warning about a planned attack by Fulani herdsmen in the Umuoba community, Irete, causing widespread panic.
Police spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, confirmed the arrest in a statement, revealing that Azonibe admitted to distributing the notice alongside his brother on the instructions of one Prophetess Ijeoma, who claimed to have received a divine revelation about the attack.
On the night of Monday, February 10, residents of Umuoba discovered the threat notice posted on their gates, allegedly written by Fulani herdsmen. The message read:
“FULANI HERDSMEN. WE ARE COMING. WAIT FOR US AT ANY TIME, ANY MOMENT NOW. WAIT FOR US.”
The notice triggered fear among residents, prompting a police investigation.
During questioning, Azonibe claimed that the message was composed by Prophetess Ijeoma of Assembly Church, Irete. He said she instructed him and his brother, Amanea, to distribute it as a warning to the community.
According to the police statement, Mr. Chidi Emma Azonibe, 35, a native of Umuelele in Irete, admitted to posting the message. He stated that Prophetess Ijeoma told him she received a divine revelation that Fulani herdsmen were planning an attack, leading her to compose and circulate the notice”.
Okoye emphasized that the message had heightened tension in Irete and the Owerri metropolis. He added that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the alleged prophetess and other suspects involved.
The police spokesperson warned against the spread of false or inciting messages, stating that anyone found guilty of causing public unrest would face legal consequences.
“The suspect is currently undergoing investigation and will face prosecution. The Imo State Police Command sternly warns against the spread of false information, as anyone inciting panic or unrest will face the full wrath of the law,” Okoye stated.
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