By Mercy Aikoye
The member representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Robinson Dekor, has dismissed reports alleging insecurity in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, describing the claims as a deliberate campaign of misinformation aimed at tarnishing the image of the council chairman, Chief Hon. Thomas Bariere.
Dekor, who is also the Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities, in a statement issued on Wednesday, accused unnamed individuals of spreading false narratives to undermine the achievements of the current administration in Khana.
According to him, the local government had experienced security challenges before the assumption of office by the present administration, but noted that deliberate interventions, collaboration with security agencies, and engagement with community stakeholders had helped restore peace and confidence among residents.
He maintained that the alleged campaign against Bariere was linked to the administration’s efforts to tackle criminal activities, including cultism, gangsterism, kidnapping and other forms of insecurity.
“The resolve of Chief Hon. Thomas Bariere to rid Khana of criminal elements and restore law and order has earned him the admiration of law-abiding citizens but has unsettled those who thrive in an atmosphere of fear and violence,” Dekor stated.
The federal lawmaker warned individuals behind what he described as “malicious publications” to desist from actions capable of undermining public peace, stressing that freedom of expression does not protect defamation, character assassination or deliberate dissemination of false information.
Dekor further said anyone found to have sponsored or coordinated false publications capable of inciting the public or damaging reputations would be reported to relevant security agencies and prosecuted in accordance with Nigerian laws.
He urged residents of Khana to disregard what he termed “fabricated stories” and remain supportive of the local government administration as it continues its efforts in security, governance and grassroots development.
“Facts remain sacred, and history will always distinguish genuine service from desperate propaganda,” he added.
