Gombe: Rumoured attack on ECWA church, false — Police

The Gombe State Police Command has dismissed a viral social media report alleging that gunmen attacked an ECWA Church in Kashere, Akko Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement on Sunday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Buhari Abdullahi, described the claim as “entirely false,” stressing that no such incident took place.

According to the command, the message circulating online alleged that a local congregation had been invaded and worshippers abducted.

However, preliminary checks immediately disproved the report.

“For the sake of setting the record straight, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Pindiga and the Officer in Charge of the Kashere Police Outstation immediately reached out to one of the church elders,” Abdullahi clarified.

He explained that the church elder, who was physically present during the second segment of the Hausa service, confirmed that “no such incident occurred.”

Abdullahi added that the elder also acknowledged that police operatives had been stationed at the church throughout the day as part of routine security measures.

“He confirmed that police officers were at the church premises providing protection,” the PPRO stated.

Describing the rumour as “irresponsible,” the command warned that such misinformation was capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.

Abdullahi further noted that those behind the false alarm would be identified and sanctioned. “The source of this misinformation will be thoroughly investigated. Members of the public are advised to remain calm and law-abiding, as the Gombe State Police Command remains fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents,” he added.

The command urged the public to rely only on verified information and avoid sharing unconfirmed reports capable of heightening fear or tension in the state.