The Rivers State Police Command has refuted claims of a shooting incident involving rival political groups at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secretariat in Port Harcourt.
The police acknowledged existing internal tensions within the party but described reports of an armed clash as false and misleading.
Earlier, various online platforms circulated reports suggesting that supporters of opposing PDP factions had engaged in a gun duel at the party’s secretariat.
In response, Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, issued a statement on Sunday dismissing the allegations.
She stated, “The Rivers State Police Command is aware of a recent news report circulating across various online platforms, alleging a gun duel between conflicting political groups at the PDP Secretariat on Aba Road, Port Harcourt.”
“We wish to categorically inform the general public that this report is entirely false and misleading. At no point was such an incident reported to or witnessed by the Police,” she added.
Iringe-Koko further noted that police personnel were promptly dispatched to the PDP Secretariat.
“Upon investigation, it was confirmed that the report was a false alarm, raised by mischief makers and troublemakers with the intent to cause panic,” she said.
She cautioned individuals or groups involved in spreading false information to desist from actions that could incite unrest.
“The Rivers State Police Command strongly warns individuals or groups involved in spreading false information to desist from heating the polity and creating unnecessary tension,” she stated.
“We remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents in the state, and we will continue to work tirelessly to maintain law and order while securing lives and property,” she concluded.
The police spokesperson urged the public to disregard such baseless rumors and trust in the professionalism and dedication of the police in maintaining peace within the state.
This statement comes amid ongoing leadership disputes within the PDP in Rivers State.
Earlier in January, the police had taken control of the PDP secretariat in Port Harcourt over concerns of a leadership crisis.
The Rivers State High Court had nullified the party’s ward, local council, and state congresses, leading to a faction loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, led by Robinson Ewor, asserting control over the party structure.
However, the sacked PDP Chairman, Chukwuemeka Aaron, and his group argued that their faction was still in charge, stating that they were not a party to the court judgment that nullified the congresses.
The police action in January aimed to prevent a potential breakdown of law and order amid the escalating leadership crisis within the party.
The Rivers State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state, urging residents to remain calm and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
