The Anambra State Police Command has debunked widely circulated social media reports alleging that a fire incident in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area, resulted from an armed attack. The misleading posts, which quickly created tension across the state, claimed that gunmen hiding in a nearby bush were responsible for the blaze.
Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga clarified that investigations show the incident was caused by a collision involving a fuel tanker and a Toyota Corolla in the early hours of November 21, 2025. The crash triggered an explosion that destroyed the tanker, the car, nearby shops, and a tricycle caught in the fire, leading to the death of the tricycle rider. Ikenga stressed that there was no involvement of gunmen or any armed group, describing the circulating narrative as entirely false.
The Command has opened an investigation to identify the drivers and determine liability for the accident. It also condemned individuals who used the tragedy to spread alarm and misinformation capable of escalating public fear. According to Ikenga, Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu has ordered a separate probe aimed at uncovering the origin of the misleading social media post and the identity of its handler.
The Police emphasized their commitment to providing accurate public information and preventing the spread of unfounded claims that could jeopardize public order or obstruct security operations.
