Richard Ginika Izuora
The Ebonyi Governor, David Umahi, on Monday, January 4, ordered the arrest of circulators of a video on social media that Fulani herdsmen were being attacked and also chased out of the state which has caused panic and tension.
Umahi said at a news conference in Abakaliki that the video was faked and ordered security agencies to investigate the source of the video; as well as arrest the circulators.
“Security personnel must ensure that those behind the circulation of the video; which has caused panic across the country, are brought to book.
“We must increase our security surveillance at the grassroots level. I urge the security agencies to step up; and also arrest persons circulating the video on social media,’’ Umahi said.
Mr Inusa Sani, Secretary, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Ebonyi Chapter, condemned the misleading video, also adding that “it is fake news.’’
“The video is an orchestrated attempt by mischief makers and enemies of peace.
“What happened was that on Jan. 2, one of us, Alhaji Adamu, residing at Ozibo Village in Nkaleke Ichaba/Enyibishiri community, informed the association of his relocation to Taraba State.
“I use this opportunity to urge the general public to disregard the video in circulation; also, no Fulani herdsman was attacked or chased out of Ebonyi State,’’ Sani said.
He said herdsmen had cohabited peacefully with their host communities without any fear; molestation; threat; or intimidation from any quarter.
The Police Command in Ebonyi had on Sunday also issued a statement; noting that Fulani herdsmen were not attacked or being chased out of the state.
Also speaking at the news conference, Mr Philip Maku, Commissioner of Police in the state, assured the public of the Command’s readiness to protect lives as well as property.
“The general public should disregard the video in circulation; which is misleading and fake. Keep going about your normal business; and also support the security agencies and state government at ensuring that those behind the evil plot are fished out,’’ Maku admonished.