Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
OWERRI, Nigeria – The Imo State Police Command has dismissed as false a viral social media report claiming that suspected herdsmen attacked and set a student hostel ablaze near the Federal Polytechnic Nekede in Owerri, saying no such incident occurred.
The command issued the clarification on Sunday after a Facebook post alleged that more than 80 students were trapped inside a hostel allegedly torched by suspected herdsmen.
Police spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye described the report as fabricated, misleading and capable of creating unnecessary fear and public panic.
According to the command, security agencies have found no evidence to support the claims circulating online.
“The Imo State Police Command has noted a misleading publication circulated on Facebook today, July 5, 2026, alleging that Fulani herdsmen set a student hostel in Nekede, Owerri, on fire, trapping over 80 students inside the burning building,” Okoye said.
“The command wishes to state unequivocally that the report is entirely false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.”
The police urged residents to disregard the viral publication and refrain from sharing unverified information capable of inciting fear or disturbing public order.
Okoye stressed the importance of verifying information through credible and official channels before reposting content on social media.
“Members of the public are therefore urged to disregard the false publication and refrain from circulating unverified information capable of causing fear, panic or public disorder.”
“Citizens should always verify the authenticity of information through credible and official sources before sharing it on social media or other platforms,” he added.
The command reiterated its commitment to providing timely and accurate updates on security matters and maintaining public confidence through transparent communication.
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