Ignore viral video ordering sit-at-home, Enugu police urge residents

The Police in Enugu State on Sunday responded to a viral video calling for a two-day sit-at-home in the Southeast.

They warned that any attempt to disrupt the peace and security of the state would be dealt with ruthlessly, urging residents to carry on with their lawful duties while assuring them of protection.

The viral video, circulating on social media, featured a man wearing glasses, who advised residents of Imo, Enugu, Abia, Ebonyi and Anambra states to remain indoors on Monday, October 21, and Tuesday, October 22.

He claimed that on those dates, ‘Biafra armoured tankers and Biafra flags’ would be launched. He further warned that Nigerian security officials would “roll out all manner of weapons to attack anybody on sight,” advising residents to “stay indoors with your family members to avoid being killed or harmed.”

Following the circulation of the video, some schools in Enugu State advised their students on Friday not to attend classes on Monday and Tuesday.

However, the Enugu Police, in a statement on Sunday, urged residents to disregard the sit-at-home order.

The statement, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer in Enugu State, Daniel Ndukwe, described the unidentified man’s message as baseless.

The Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, dismissed the reasons given for the sit-at-home order as “unwarranted” and a deliberate attempt to incite fear and unrest in the state.

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“CP Kanayo emphasises that Enugu State has long moved past such criminally motivated, illegal sit-at-home orders or advice, often designed to destabilise the social, economic, and psychological well-being of the people under the guise of secessionist agitations,” the statement read.

The Commissioner encouraged citizens to continue their lawful activities without fear or intimidation, assuring them that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, are fully prepared to maintain peace and security across the state. He warned that anyone attempting to disrupt public order would be dealt with ruthlessly.

“CP Kanayo also urges parents and guardians to warn their children and wards against being used for any act inimical to the peace and security of the state, warning that the legal consequences of such involvement will be dire,” the statement continued.

Furthermore, the Commissioner called on residents to remain vigilant, and law-abiding, and report suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest police station. For emergencies, the public can contact the Enugu State Command via the following numbers: 08032003702, 08098880172, 0808667120.