Police dispel rumour of attack on Igbos in Lagos

Chioma Joseph, Lagos

Following the rumoured attack of Igbo Traders in Major markets in Lagos, the Lagos State Police Command have debunked the rumour. The Command said rumour making the rounds that hoodlums popularly known as Area Boys’ were attacking Igbo traders and preventing them from opening their shops in Oshodi and other major markets in the state was not true.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Zubairu Muazup, called on all Lagosians regardless of tribe to go about their lawful duties without fear. Muazu said the falsehood which was been peddled on social media should be disregarded saying “ Although the Command received distress calls from concerned Nigerians whose apprehensions were understandably heightened by disturbing rumours emanating from some social media platforms, the Command swiftly and massively deployed its personnel drawn from various units to Oshodi and environs to assuage the feelings of residents. “Also to further assure Lagosians of its readiness to decisively deal with any person or group of persons who attempts to breach the public peace. “The Command commends Lagosians for conducting themselves in a peaceful and orderly manner during the last Saturday Presidential and National Assembly Elections. The Police with support of other Sister security agencies worked round the clock to ensure that the process was generally peaceful,” he said. The Police further stated that the command will sustain a high level of Police presence to ensure the sustenance of peace in all parts of the state with emphasis on crime prone areas. “Those celebrating should do that with modesty while those unhappy with the results have the privilege of adhering with laid down procedures of addressing their grievances as provided by the Electoral Act in the Tribunal. The Command has made adequate arrangements to secure the venues of the Election Tribunals in the State,” he emphasised. The Command however, warned criminally minded persons and disgruntled elements to stay clear of the state or be prepared to contend with security forces in the state.