The Kaduna State Security Council has warned that anyone found spreading false information and images of attacks in the state will be prosecuted.

This follows the report on Kaduna State College of Education, Gidan Waya, published by Vanguard Newspapers in which it was alleged that five students of the college were ambushed and killed by Fulani herdsmen in Southern Kaduna.

The college faulted the story in a statement signed by its Acting Registrar, Samuel Tukuraki on Thursday, described it as “totally false and unfounded.”

Following the report, the State Security Council, according to a statement signed by Samuel Aruwan, Special Assistant to Governor Nasir El-Rufai on Media and Publicity on Saturday in Kaduna, said the council received reports of a spike in false stories of attacks and killings.

These according to him, “appear tailored to promote panic within communities, create fear and provoke a spiral of reprisals and vengeance.”

Aruwan said if any individual or community is attacked, the correct and lawful procedure is to report to traditional rulers and the Police, who have the statutory duty to record the incident, investigate and ascertain its veracity and take steps to establish the identity of victim and perpetrators, amongst others.

He said the State Security Council on Saturday, reviewed the situation in three Local Government Areas (LGSs) that are under curfew.

He said security agencies have taken actions that are preventing attacks, and stabilising the situation in Jema’a, Kaura and Zangon-Kataf LGAs.

He called on everyone to reject fictitious reports and exaggeration that needlessly complicate the sober and serious efforts being exerted to advance peace and security in the state.

“The Kaduna State Security Council warns that anyone spreading false stories and images of attacks is liable to be prosecuted.

“The council welcomes the efforts of the security agencies in thwarting attacks and helping to foster a growing sense of safety,” he added.