The Edo State Police Command has refuted reports circulating on social media alleging that a police station was set ablaze in Ekpoma, describing the claims as false, misleading and capable of causing public panic.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, clarified that no police facility or station was affected by fire anywhere in Ekpoma.
“The Command categorically states that no police station or facility was gutted by fire in Ekpoma. The viral reports are entirely untrue and deliberately crafted to misinform the public, instill fear and erode confidence in public safety,” the statement said.
According to the police, the confusion arose from a fire incident that occurred on Sunday morning at the POWA Shops area within the Ekpoma Division.
The command explained that the fire broke out around 11:30 a.m. shortly after electricity supply was restored by the Benin Electricity Distribution Company.
“A spark reportedly emanated from one of the shops, triggering a fire that spread to adjoining shops in the area,” the statement noted.
Police officers, alongside members of the public, were said to have responded swiftly, containing and extinguishing the fire before it could spread further.
While the extent of property damage is still being assessed, the command confirmed that no lives were lost in the incident.
The police strongly condemned the spread of unverified and sensational information by individuals and online content creators, warning that such actions could disrupt economic activities, heighten fear and pose security threats.
Residents were urged to verify information through credible and official channels before sharing.
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, reassured residents of Ekpoma and the wider public that the security situation in the area remains calm and under control.
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He advised citizens to remain law-abiding and ignore reports capable of inciting fear or confusion.
The clarification comes amid heightened tension in the university town following a separate incident a day earlier.
On Saturday, a peaceful protest against insecurity and kidnapping in Ekpoma was hijacked by hoodlums who unleashed violence, disrupted commercial activities and attacked parts of the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has since condemned the attack, insisting that there was no justification for targeting a traditional institution under the guise of protesting insecurity.