late DCP Admin, Lagos State Police Command
It is heart-wrenching and disappointing for the family, friends, and associates of late DCP Salihu Khan who died yesterday Monday 15th June afternoon, and was just buried early today according to Islamic rites to get on social media to find that a campaign of calumny is being championed by a group of Nigerian social media personalities against the memory of the late gallant senior police officer, complete gentleman, and breadwinner.
It is an agonizing experience for the immediate family. It doesn’t do justice to the legacy of a man who has been described by the Lagos State Police Command as a highly respectful and loyal senior officer. It is like pouring salt on an open wound.
For the avoidance of doubt, the late Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP Khan Salihu died yesterday after complaining of being unwell. In fact, he reported to the office at Lagos State Police Command before he checked into a hospital. DCP Khan Salihu was never kidnapped by suspected criminals at any time prior to his demise. Any report circulated on social media or through any other means contrary to the truth is entirely false, misleading, and a complete fabrication with no basis in fact whatsoever.
To further this assertion, the Lagos State Police Command, the agency that DCP Salihu Khan worked with till his unfortunate incident, highlighted in its press statement that: ‘The Command wishes to state categorically that prior to his passing, DCP Khan Salihu briefly complained of feeling unwell and was immediately rushed to the hospital for urgent medical attention. Sadly, upon arrival, medical doctors confirmed him dead.’
‘At no time was he abducted, kidnapped, or involved in any incident remotely connected to criminal activity as falsely portrayed in the publication,’ the Command added.
The press statement released by the Lagos Police PRO, SP Abimbola Adebisi finds it rather disturbing that any individual or group will ride on the sadness of a family to trend online. ‘The Command finds it deeply disturbing and professionally disappointing that such a spurious and unverified story could be published by a recognised media platform without the slightest attempt to verify the information from the appropriate authorities.’
‘This represents a serious breach of the fundamental principles of responsible journalism and has unnecessarily misled the public while causing avoidable pain and distress to the family, friends, and professional colleagues of the late senior officer. The publication is not only inaccurate but also insensitive, particularly at a time when the Command, family members, and loved ones are mourning the loss of a dedicated and accomplished senior police officer who served the nation with distinction.’
The Lagos State Police Command is, thus, issuing a stern warning and immediate demand for a swift withdrawal of the false report, while urging the media organisation concerned to issue a public correction and apology in the interest of truth, professionalism, and public accountability.
The Command also encouraged members of the public to disregard the publication in its entirety and rely only on information released through official channels of the Lagos State Police Command. The Command remains committed to combating misinformation and will continue to provide accurate, timely, and verified information to the public.