From Joseph Asegba, Yola
Adamawa State Police Command has dismissed reports that the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) chairman in the state was beheaded by Fulani terrorists, calling the claim false and a deliberate attempt to create panic.
The false report circulated online amid heightened concerns following the U.S. designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged persecution of Christians, which had prompted discussions of potential U.S. military involvement to protect citizens.
In a statement, the state police spokesperson, SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, identified the post as originating from a Facebook user named Lionman Lioni and described it as a malicious attempt to incite tension and religious disaffection among residents.
“The Command wishes to categorically refute this malicious claim in its entirety. There is no such incident recorded anywhere in Adamawa State,” the statement said.
The police said Commissioner of Police Dankombo Morris has directed that the public disregard the false report and always verify information from credible sources before sharing. Investigations have already commenced to track and prosecute those responsible for the publication.
“The Command remains committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of all residents, irrespective of faith or ethnicity,” the statement added, warning that attempts to incite violence through fake news will not be tolerated.
