PRNigeria FactCheck Clarifies Viral Video of Protesters Mounting Armored Vehicle in Kaduna

Authorities in Kaduna have refuted claims that protesters “hijacked” a police armored personnel carrier (APC) during recent demonstrations against poor governance in the state.

The viral video in question showed a large group of protesters taking turns mounting an APC, with a person in security camouflage visible on top of the vehicle. This led to widespread reports that the protesters had seized control of the armored vehicle.

However, upon investigation, PRNigeria fact-check found the claims to be false and misleading. https://prnigeria.com/2024/08/06/police-hijacked-protesters/

The Kaduna State Police Command confirmed that the video depicts a situation where the driver of the APC was confronted by a sizable group of protesters.

“In the face of escalating tension, the driver made a professional and commendable decision to avoid the use of live ammunition. Instead, he employed a tactical maneuver to safely escape the scene, ensuring the safety of both the protesters and the officers involved,” explained ASP Mansur Hassan, the Kaduna Police Public Relations Officer.

Hassan stressed that at no point was the APC hijacked by hoodlums, and the vehicle and its personnel remained under the control of the Kaduna State Police Command throughout the incident.

The clarification comes as a relief, as the initial reports had sparked concerns about the security situation in the state amid the ongoing protests against poor governance and economic hardship.

“It is important to stress that the video in question does not show the APC being hijacked. The vehicle and its personnel remained under the control of the Kaduna State Police Command throughout the incident,” Hassan reiterated.

The Kaduna police authorities have urged the public to be cautious about the spread of unverified information, which can lead to the escalation of tensions and undermine efforts to maintain law and order during the protests.