Rivers Police Debunk Viral Herdsmen Attack Video, Urge Public to Stay Calm

The Rivers State Police Command has dismissed claims circulating on social media suggesting an influx of suspected herdsmen into the state and alleged attacks on communities, describing the reports as false and misleading.

The clarification follows a viral video purporting to show herdsmen attacking an undisclosed location, which allegedly was repelled by Ijaw youths. Police authorities, however, insist that the footage does not depict any real incident within Rivers State.

In a statement issued on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, the spokesperson for the command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the video was created by mischief-makers attempting to incite fear and disrupt peace in the state. She urged residents to disregard the content and avoid sharing unverified reports.

“The attention of the Rivers State Police Command has been drawn to a viral video circulating on social media, falsely claiming Fulani herdsmen attacks in Rivers State and suggesting they were repelled by Ijaw youths,” the statement read.

“The command wishes to state unequivocally that these claims are entirely false, misleading, and designed to create panic. There have been no incidents or reports of Fulani herdsmen attacks in any part of Rivers State.”

Iringe-Koko emphasized that the police, working with other security agencies, remain committed to protecting lives and property, preventing crime, and maintaining peace across the state. She noted that robust security measures, including patrol teams, surveillance units, and tactical squads, have been deployed to ensure safety.

She also called on members of the public to verify information through official channels and avoid spreading content capable of generating tension or harming the state’s reputation.

“The Rivers State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Olugbenga Adepoju, is dedicated to transparent and accountable policing. Residents are advised to remain calm, vigilant, and rely on official sources for accurate information,” Iringe-Koko added.