Nnewi (Anambra): As tensions rise during the Anambra by-elections, the Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning to media outlets and social media users: verify before you amplify.
Mr Godwin Eze, Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG ) saddled with the supervision of the Anambra by-elections, gave the warning in Nnewi, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra, while monitoring the exercise.
Eze urged members of the public, especially media practitioners and social media users, to verify information from credible sources before going to print.
He cautioned individuals and groups against circulating fake election results, recycling old videos, or making incendiary remarks capable of breaching the peaceful conduct of the ongoing Anambra by-election.
The AIG advised the electorate to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security personnel, and avoid actions that could undermine the integrity of the electoral process.
He stated that the Nigeria Police Force and sister security agencies remained fully committed to providing adequate security for a peaceful, free, and credible electoral process.
Eze said that anyone found engaging in acts of misinformation or conduct likely to disrupt public peace will face the full weight of the law.
The AIG expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the people since the commencement of the election in the affected council areas and urged all to maintain the peace.
“We have been to Aguata, Orumba North, Orumba South, Ihiala, and now on the Nnewi axis, no security challenges have been reported.
“Our officers are on the ground in Onitsha across the polling units affected, but we expressed optimism of a hitch-free election.