Five Individuals Arraigned for Allegedly Spreading Fake Kidnapping Report on Social Media

Five individuals have been arrested by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command for allegedly spreading false information about a fabricated kidnapping incident, authorities announced Thursday.

State Commissioner of Police Baba Azare revealed the arrests during a strategic meeting with youth leaders in Uyo, the state capital. According to Azare, the suspects had disseminated fabricated information on social media about a kidnapping at a secondary school in the Oron area of Akwa Ibom State—an incident that never occurred.

“The information circulated on social media was untrue and unfair to society,” Azare stated. “Their actions were reckless and capable of causing panic and disrupting public peace.”

The commissioner confirmed that all five suspects have already been charged to court, emphasizing that the prosecution “will serve as a deterrent to those who may be nursing the intention to circulate fake news.”

The incident highlights growing concerns about the spread of misinformation across Nigeria, where social media platforms have become powerful channels for information dissemination. False reports about security incidents can trigger unnecessary panic, especially in regions where security concerns already exist.

Akwa Ibom State, located in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region, has maintained relative stability compared to some neighboring states. However, authorities remain vigilant about threats to public order, particularly those that could undermine the state’s efforts to attract investment and development.

During the meeting, which brought together youth representatives from across the state, Commissioner Azare emphasized the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and community stakeholders. He described the gathering as an opportunity “to reaffirm the collective commitment of the police to collaborate with stakeholders towards promoting peace, law and order in the state.”

“We are committed to safeguarding peace, strengthening unity and upholding the security structure that has made Akwa Ibom peaceful,” Azare said.

The commissioner specifically called upon youth leaders to take active roles in combating misinformation in their communities. “Use your positions to counter fake news wherever it arises. Encourage your community members to verify information before sharing,” he urged. “In an age where misinformation spreads quickly, your leadership role to stabilize public perception is very critical.”

Security experts have consistently warned about the dangers of fake news in Nigeria’s complex socio-political environment. False information, particularly regarding ethnically or religiously sensitive issues, has been linked to outbreaks of violence in various parts of the country in recent years.

The rise of digital media has complicated efforts to contain misinformation, as unverified reports can rapidly reach thousands or even millions of users before authorities can issue corrections.

Azare also encouraged youth leaders to embrace dialogue as their primary approach when engaging with development partners and investors. “Dialogue builds progress, violence destroys opportunities,” he noted. “Let your leadership reflect maturity, foresight and strategic thinking.”

The prosecution of the five suspects represents part of a broader effort by Nigerian authorities to hold individuals accountable for spreading false information. In recent years, several Nigerian states have strengthened laws against disseminating fake news, though critics have expressed concerns about the potential misuse of such legislation to suppress legitimate free speech and criticism.

As the case proceeds through the judicial system, it may serve as an important precedent in how Akwa Ibom authorities balance security concerns with civil liberties in the digital age.