The Gombe State Police Command has officially dismissed widespread claims on social media suggesting that gunmen attacked the Evangelical Church Winning All, ECWA, in Kashere, Akko Local Government Area. In a statement released on Sunday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Buhari Abdullahi, emphasized that the reports were “entirely false” and that no such incident took place.
Okay News reports that the misleading information began circulating online, claiming that church members were abducted during an alleged invasion. The police immediately responded to verify the claims.
According to Abdullahi, the Divisional Police Officer responsible for Pindiga and the Officer in Charge of the Kashere Police Outstation contacted one of the church elders who was present during the second segment of the Hausa service. The elder confirmed that no attack or kidnapping occurred and that the premises were under routine police protection throughout the day.
“The elder acknowledged that police officers were stationed at the church, providing security for the congregation,” Abdullahi stated. He described the dissemination of the false report as “irresponsible,” warning that such actions could incite unnecessary panic among residents.
Abdullahi further noted that those responsible for spreading the misinformation would be investigated and appropriate legal measures would be taken. He advised the public to rely solely on verified information and to avoid sharing unconfirmed news that could create fear or unrest.