By Maryjane Austine
Akwa Ibom Police Deny Reported Abduction of 15 Students in Ikot Ekpene
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismissed reports claiming that armed men invaded a students’ lodge in Ikot Ekpene and abducted 15 students, describing the story as misleading and false.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the command clarified that no abduction took place, contrary to a local newspaper report that alleged the incident.
According to the statement, police officers responded to a distress call in the early hours of 24 October 2025, following information about a suspected armed robbery at Ikot Uboh Village, Ikot Ekpene. However, upon arrival, officers discovered that the operation at the scene was a lawful exercise being conducted by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Uyo Zonal Office.
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The police spokesperson emphasised that those arrested during the EFCC operation were not kidnapped, as falsely reported. She urged journalists to verify information with the command before publishing security-related stories to avoid spreading panic among residents.
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Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, commended the officers for their professionalism and restraint during the incident, which helped prevent a potential confrontation. He also appealed to other law enforcement agencies to always liaise with the police when conducting operations in the state to prevent similar misunderstandings.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors in Akwa Ibom State.