The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Adamawa State, Joe Manzo, has debunked rumours circulating on social media alleging that he was killed by terrorists.
Manzo described the report as false and malicious, saying it was fabricated by mischief-makers seeking to create tension and crisis in the state.
“I don’t know who authored that fake news. If I did, I would have asked what their intention was,” Manzo told Sunday PUNCH. “There is no threat to my life. My life is in God’s hands, not man’s.”
The fake report, which surfaced on social media platforms on Friday, falsely claimed that the Adamawa CAN chairman had been beheaded by terrorists. By Saturday, the misinformation had spread widely, stoking fears among Christians in the North.
The rumour gained further attention amid global discussions following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial remarks threatening to deploy American troops to Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
Manzo urged the public to disregard the report and remain calm, calling for continued support for Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s administration.
Similarly, the Adamawa State Police Command dismissed the report as baseless.
In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, Suleiman Nguroje, the police described the claim as the work of mischief-makers.
“The Command wishes to categorically refute this malicious claim in its entirety. There is no such incident recorded anywhere in Adamawa State,” Nguroje stated.
“The report is purely the handiwork of those intent on causing panic, tension, and religious disaffection among peace-loving residents.”
Nguroje added that an investigation had begun to identify and prosecute those responsible for spreading the false information.
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