By Adaurie Constance
The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed claims that late Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP Salihu Khan, was kidnapped before his death. CP Fatai Tijani’s command said the DC Finance and Administration died on Monday 15th June after complaining of being unwell, reporting to office before checking into hospital where he was confirmed dead.
National Association of Online Security News Publishers NAOSNP gathered in a statement by the Command’s Spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the agency that DCP Khan worked with till his unfortunate incident that: ‘The Command wishes to state categorically that prior to his passing, DCP Khan Salihu briefly complained of feeling unwell and was immediately rushed to the hospital for urgent medical attention. Sadly, upon arrival, medical doctors confirmed him dead.’
‘At no time was he abducted, kidnapped, or involved in any incident remotely connected to criminal activity as falsely portrayed in the publication,’ the Command added.
The statement said it finds it rather disturbing that any individual or group will ride on the sadness of a family to trend online. ‘The Command finds it deeply disturbing and professionally disappointing that such a spurious and unverified story could be published by a recognised media platform without the slightest attempt to verify the information from the appropriate authorities.’
‘This represents a serious breach of the fundamental principles of responsible journalism and has unnecessarily misled the public while causing avoidable pain and distress to the family, friends, and professional colleagues of the late senior officer. The publication is not only inaccurate but also insensitive, particularly at a time when the Command, family members, and loved ones are mourning the loss of a dedicated and accomplished senior police officer who served the nation with distinction.’
The Lagos Command is, thus, issuing a stern warning and immediate demand for a swift withdrawal of the false report, while urging the media organisation concerned to issue a public correction and apology in the interest of truth, professionalism, and public accountability.
The Command also encouraged members of the public to disregard the publication in its entirety and rely only on information released through official channels of the Lagos State Police Command. The Command remains committed to combating misinformation and will continue to provide accurate, timely, and verified information to the public.
