Police Debunk Report of Students’ Abduction in Akwa Ibom
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has refuted claims circulating in some media outlets alleging that gunmen attacked a students’ lodge in Ikot Ekpene and kidnapped 15 students.
In a statement released on Sunday in Uyo, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, described the report as “misleading and inaccurate.”
The disputed publication, titled “Unknown Gunmen Raid Students’ Lodge,” had alleged that heavily armed men invaded a students’ hostel in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, abducted 15 students, and made away with valuables a report that stirred tension across the state.
However, the police have clarified that no such abduction took place. “The attention of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has been drawn to misleading reports suggesting that armed men raided a students’ lodge and kidnapped 15 students in Ikot Ekpene. We categorically state that no student was abducted and the operation in question was not carried out by gunmen,” DSP John said.
According to the police spokesperson, the incident was actually a legitimate operation conducted by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Uyo Zonal Office.
John explained that on October 24, 2025, at about 4:30 a.m., the Command received a distress call about a suspected armed robbery at Ikot Uboh Village, Ikot Ekpene. A police team was promptly dispatched to the scene, only to discover that the supposed “attackers” were EFCC officials carrying out an authorized operation. “Upon arrival, our officers professionally engaged the situation and confirmed that the operatives were from the EFCC, not criminals. Some individuals were arrested by the EFCC during the operation, but none were kidnapped,” she clarified.
The police spokesperson cautioned journalists and media outlets against publishing unverified security information, stressing that such misinformation could cause unnecessary public anxiety.
“We appreciate the critical role of the media but urge practitioners to always verify facts with the police before publication,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, commended the police personnel who responded to the incident for their professionalism and restraint, which prevented a potential confrontation.
He also appealed to other security agencies to inform and coordinate with the police when carrying out operations within the state to avoid similar misunderstandings.
“The police remain the lead security agency in the state, and our doors are open to journalists and the public seeking clarification on security matters,” CP Azare stated.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors across Akwa Ibom State.
