Police dismiss reports of terrorist attack at Asaba Airport, say ONSA conducted simulation

Crime Diary

ASABA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Airport Police Command has dismissed reports circulating on social media and other platforms alleging a terrorist attack or security breach at Asaba International Airport, saying the security activities witnessed at the facility were part of a planned security simulation exercise conducted by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

The command made the clarification in a statement signed by its Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mohammed Adeola, on Monday, September 14, 2026, in response to what it described as false reports about the incident.

According to the Airport Police Command, the exercise was conducted on Thursday, September 10, 2026, as a coordinated security simulation designed by ONSA to assess and strengthen the preparedness, response capabilities and inter-agency coordination of relevant security and emergency-response agencies.

Advertisement

The command said the exercise involved the deployment of security personnel and other stakeholders to recreate a simulated security incident within the airport environment.

It explained that the simulation was intended to test existing response mechanisms, communication channels, command and control structures, as well as the ability of participating agencies to respond effectively to potential security emergencies.

The Airport Police Command stressed that the activity was a controlled and authorised exercise and should not be interpreted as an actual terrorist attack or invasion of the airport.

The command therefore urged members of the public, particularly travellers and airport users, to disregard the reports and narratives suggesting that the airport had come under attack.

It also appealed to the public to refrain from circulating unverified information that could create unnecessary fear and panic.

The Airport Police Command assured the public that, according to its assessment, the security situation at the airport remained under control, adding that relevant security agencies remained vigilant and committed to ensuring the safety of passengers, airport personnel, facilities and other stakeholders.

The command further advised members of the public to rely on verified information from authorised government and security agencies and support ongoing efforts to strengthen national security preparedness and safeguard critical airport infrastructure.