Musa Na Allah Sokoto
The Nigeria Development Communications (DevComs) Network has firmly debunked claims that a mob attack occurred during a recent family planning outreach in Mbierebe Akpawat, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The organization emphasized that the event was peaceful, productive, and well received by the local community.
In a press release issued by DevComs Network and signed by its representative, Akin Jimoh, the health communication group clarified that an earlier report alleging that service providers narrowly escaped mob violence was completely unfounded.
“The report, which has since been retracted, was based on inaccurate information and does not reflect the reality of the outreach activity,” the statement read.
The family planning outreach, held in June with communication support from DevComs and collaboration from media professionals and local health authorities, saw active and voluntary participation from women in the community.
According to Mrs. Ime Ekere, the Family Planning Coordinator for Ibesikpo Asutan LGA, “The outreach team worked in a conducive environment, and at no point was the safety of the volunteers or participants threatened.”
DevComs acknowledged the ongoing presence of myths and misconceptions about family planning but stressed that these do not translate into violence or hostility.
On the contrary, they noted a steady increase in demand for reproductive health services across Nigeria, including in Akwa Ibom.
DevComs warned that the spread of false reports could severely damage the trust built over years between communities and health workers.
“Spreading false stories of violence undermines the trust between health workers and communities and may discourage people, especially women, from seeking the vital reproductive health services they need,” the release stated.
The organization reaffirmed that family planning is about empowering families with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions, not promoting immorality or limiting freedoms.
These services, freely available at local health centers, help families space childbirth
