Nigerian Police Force Dismisses Abuja Terror Alert as False and Malicious
The Nigerian Police Force has officially dismissed alarming reports that terrorists have issued threats to bomb the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. In a statement released on Friday, April 10, 2026, the police authority clarified that a viral video depicting terrorist attacks in the capital is entirely fabricated. According to the police, the video was deliberately curated with misleading footage sourced from various online platforms, aimed at spreading false information to incite public panic and undermine confidence in Abuja's security infrastructure.
Arrest Made in Connection with Fake Video
In a significant development, the police announced the arrest of one Pam Joseph, who is accused of being the mastermind behind the creation and distribution of the false video. The arrest followed a thorough investigation involving forensic analysis and credible intelligence, which linked Joseph directly to the dissemination of the fake content. This action underscores the police's commitment to combating misinformation that threatens national security.
Police Emphasize Responsibility in Freedom of Expression
The police statement highlighted that while every Nigerian has the right to freedom of expression, this right does not extend to the deliberate spread of misinformation capable of endangering public peace and national security. Authorities urged members of the public to exercise caution by verifying information before sharing it and to refrain from engaging in activities that could lead to fear and disorder. This call to action aims to foster a more responsible digital environment and prevent the escalation of false alarms.
Impact on Public Confidence and Security Measures
The incident has raised concerns about the potential impact of such false reports on public confidence in security agencies. The police reassured citizens that Abuja remains secure and that measures are in place to address any genuine threats. They emphasized the importance of relying on official channels for accurate information and discouraged the spread of unverified content that could destabilize the community.
This response from the Nigerian Police Force serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by digital misinformation and the critical role of law enforcement in maintaining public order. As investigations continue, authorities are expected to take further steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
