Abia Government Debunks False Reports on Umunneochi Security Situation, Warns Against Media Misinformation
The Abia State Government has strongly condemned what it described as an "orchestrated campaign of misinformation" aimed at distorting facts surrounding the recent security breach in Umunneochi Local Government Area, warning that the state will not tolerate falsehood, incitement, or media irresponsibility masquerading as free speech.
In an official press statement released by the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, the government raised concerns over the actions of certain individuals "masquerading as media professionals" who have resorted to publishing unverified claims through obscure blogs and unregulated YouTube channels.
No Confirmed Casualties, No Group Blamed — Government Clarifies
Contrary to viral reports circulating online, the government emphasized that no casualty figures were released during the post-Executive Council press briefing, as security agencies had not confirmed any fatalities at the time. Additionally, the security breach was not attributed to Fulani herdsmen or any specific group, since investigations are ongoing.
“For the records,” the statement reads, “it was reported that there was a security breach in Umunneochi and that His Excellency, Dr. Alex C. Otti, OFR, had convened an emergency meeting of the State Security Council to address the situation comprehensively.”
Security Achievements Undermined by Fake News
The Abia State Government reiterated that under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, Abia has remained largely peaceful and secure since May 2023. Incidents like the recent Umunneochi breach, though concerning, have been swiftly and effectively handled by Operation Crush, the state's proactive special security outfit, working in tandem with other national agencies.
“This recent attempt to misinform people and discredit the state government’s strides in security is not only unfortunate, it is doomed to fail,” the Commissioner stated.
Warning to Fake News Peddlers
The government has launched an investigation to trace the origin of these fake reports and has vowed that any individual or group found culpable will face the full weight of the law. It described the act as "media terrorism disguised as free speech" and stressed that such actions only serve to incite fear, provoke ethnic tension, and destabilize public peace.
Commitment to Peace and Protection
Reassuring the public, the government reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors in the state. “Let it be known that the Abia State Government will not tolerate falsehood, incitement, or any form of media terrorism. We remain resolute in our duty to protect all who live and do business in Abia State,” the statement concluded.
This firm stance by the state government serves as a cautionary message to bloggers, influencers, and media outlets to uphold journalistic ethics and verify information before publication.
