Speculations of crisis within Kaduna metropolis almost caused the loss of lives and destruction of property if not for the timely intervention of police personnel who brought the situation under control on Sunday.
The Kaduna state Police Command urged residents of the four local government areas that make up the city to remain calm and go about their normal means of livelihood.
A statement signed by the the Police Public Relations Officer, Kaduna state Command, DSP Yakubu Abubakar Sabo said the Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmad Abdur-Rahman has dispelled any such rumour of ethnic or religious coloration.
He immediately directed all the security operatives to intensify patrol to forestall any possible break down of law and order and to also boost public confidence.
The statement reads, “The attention of the Kaduna State Police Command was drawn to some callous and mischievous rumours going round in the town that there were crises around Sabon Tasha and Mararraban Rido areas of Kaduna Metropolis.
“The Command wishes to categorically debunk this information as fake and mischievous that was intentionally fabricated by some misguided persons to create panic and disharmony among the good citizens of the state in order to destabilize the existing peaceful atmosphere being enjoyed in the state.”
The police explained that what actually happened was an incident that occurred when someone was suspected to have attempted to steal a pair of shoes in a shop at Sabo market and was sighted.
“Thus, while the suspected thief was being pursued by good samaritans, people moving within the neighborhood started running harpazardly thinking that it was a crisis.
“The situation caused pandemonium and rumours spread immediately within the town and beyond,” it clarified.
The command assured members of the public of adequate security for the protection of lives and property.
“Citizens are advised to jettison any of such information and to report immediately to the nearest security office any person or persons found spreading such rumour for prompt lawful action please,” the statement said.
