Police authorities in Akwa Ibom State have arrested a social media activist, Akaninyene Udo, over allegations of circulating false security information that reportedly caused panic among residents.
It was gathered that the suspect was taken into custody after allegedly posting misleading updates online suggesting an imminent security threat in parts of the state. The posts were said to have triggered tension and prompted emergency responses from security agencies.
Confirming the arrest, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, said the action followed investigations into a viral social media post believed to have circulated false threat information.
According to the statement issued in Uyo on Monday, the suspect, a resident of Akpautong in Esit Eket Local Government Area, who operates a social media account under the name “AK Philo,” was apprehended for allegedly spreading information capable of breaching public peace.
“The individual was arrested for circulating false information capable of breaching public peace and causing panic among residents,” the police said.
The Command added that investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the suspect’s actions and whether other individuals were involved in spreading the content.
It further urged residents to verify information from official sources before sharing on social media, warning that anyone found guilty of spreading false security alerts would be prosecuted.
