The Police Command in Akwa Ibom State has warned residents of the state against defamation, cyber stalking and social media abuse.
This was conveyed in a Release issued by The Spokesperson of The Command, DSP Timfom John on behalf of The State Police Commissioner, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, in Uyo on Tuesday and made available to our media outfit.
According to John, the warning came on the heels of a current case of defamation and cyber stalking against one Ewa Okpo by an Attorney of Distinguished Senator Effiong Bob, Samuel Ikpo & Company..
The petition, dated 17th June, 2026, was filed on behalf of Senator Effiong Bob through Samuel Ikpo & Company Chambers. It alleges that one Mr. Ewa Okpo published and circulated on his social media platforms videos and other materials containing statements alleged to be false, malicious, defamatory, and injurious to the reputation and integrity of the petitioner.
Upon receipt of the petition, the Command immediately activated the necessary investigative machinery in line with its constitutional and statutory responsibilities. Consequently, the suspect was arrested, taken into lawful custody, and is currently assisting the Police with ongoing investigations.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command wishes to make it abundantly clear that social media is not a sanctuary for criminality. While the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression, that right does not confer a licence to fabricate falsehoods, malign the character of others, spread malicious content, or use digital platforms to incite hatred, destroy reputations, or undermine public peace.
The Command therefore issues a strong warning to individuals who have made a habit of hiding behind mobile phones, anonymous accounts, and social media platforms to commit criminal acts. Anyone who deliberately publishes false information, engages in cyberstalking, criminal defamation, cyberbullying, blackmail, or any other unlawful online activity is advised to desist forthwith or be prepared to face the full weight of the law.
The era when individuals believed they could commit offences in cyberspace with impunity is over. The Nigeria Police Force possesses the legal mandate, investigative capacity, and technological capability to identify, trace, investigate, arrest, and prosecute offenders, irrespective of where such unlawful publications originate. The Command further warns that persons who knowingly circulate, repost, endorse, or amplify false and malicious publications may equally expose themselves to criminal liability where investigations establish their complicity.
The investigation into this matter is being conducted professionally, impartially, and in strict compliance with the Constitution and all extant laws. The rights of every person involved are being respected, while all available evidence is being meticulously examined to ensure that justice is served.
Upon the conclusion of the investigation, any person found culpable will be charged before a court of competent jurisdiction without hesitation. The Command will not succumb to intimidation, public sentiment, media trials, or any attempt to obstruct the course of justice.
Members of the public are therefore advised to exercise restraint, responsibility, and civility in the use of social media. Every publication should be guided by truth, decency, and respect for the rights, reputation, and dignity of others. Ignorance of the law will not avail anyone who violates the law through digital platforms.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting the rights, reputation, and security of all law-abiding citizens. The Command will continue to ensure that every person who violates the law—whether offline or online—is brought to justice in accordance with due process and the rule of law.” The Release read.
