The Anambra State Government has urged residents to disregard the circulation of old violence videos resurfacing online ahead of Monday activities, describing them as deliberate fear tactics.
In a press release signed by the Governor’s Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, and dated February 2, 2026, the government accused criminal elements and economic saboteurs of recycling graphic footage from past security incidents to instil panic among residents.
The government stated that the videos being circulated are from previous years and are not connected to the current security situation in the state.
“The Anambra State Government categorically states that the horrific videos currently circulating on social media platforms, including those showing victims of brutal attacks from years past, are OLD FOOTAGE being deliberately recirculated to create panic and aid economic sabotage,” the statement said.
According to the release, the videos date back to between 2021 and 2023, a period marked by violent activities carried out by criminal gangs enforcing illegal sit at home orders.
The government described the circulation of the footage as insensitive, particularly to families of victims affected during that period.
“The circulation of such graphic content is not only insensitive to the families of victims but represents a calculated attempt to psychologically manipulate Ndi Anambra at this time,” the statement added.
The press release also clarified that the Indigenous People of Biafra has denied issuing any sit at home directive for Monday, February 2, 2026, or any future date.
It further referenced Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s recent decision to close the Onitsha Main Market for one week, explaining that the move was aimed at curbing economic losses linked to unauthorised sit at home observance.
The government stressed that security in Anambra has improved significantly, noting enhanced collaboration with joint security agencies and the state vigilante network, Agunechemba.
“Anambra State today is significantly more secure than it was during the period when those old videos were recorded,” the release said.
The statement warned that those spreading false information or attempting to disrupt public peace would be dealt with according to the law.
“Anyone found spreading false information, creating panic, or engaging in acts of violence will face the full wrath of the law,” it stated.
The government appealed to traders, transporters, artisans and residents to ignore the videos, resume normal activities and verify information through official sources.
“The government has done its part by ensuring robust security. Now, we call on you to do your part by refusing to be intimidated, opening your shops, going to work, going to school, and living your lives normally,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its stance, the Anambra State Government declared that fear would not be allowed to derail economic progress.
“Anambra is on the rise,” the release concluded, calling on residents to reject fear and embrace peace, progress and prosperity.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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