Asaba Airport: Police Debunk Terror Attack Reports, Explain Security Drill
By PAULINA NZERUBE
Police Debunk Terror Attack Reports
THE Airport Police Command has dismissed reports of a terrorist attack at Asaba International Airport, saying the security activities witnessed at the facility on Thursday, September 10, 2026, were part of a planned simulation exercise.
The Command said the exercise was authorised and coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
It was designed to test the readiness of security and emergency-response agencies to handle possible threats at the airport.
What Happened at the Airport
According to the police, security personnel and other relevant stakeholders deliberately recreated a simulated security incident within the airport environment.
The exercise tested existing response mechanisms and communication channels. It also assessed command and control structures and the ability of participating agencies to respond quickly to a potential emergency.
The activities apparently prompted speculation on social media and other platforms that the airport had come under attack.
However, the Airport Police Command said no terrorist attack or actual security breach occurred.
Police Clarify the Situation
The Command said the reports circulating about the airport were false.
It therefore urged travellers, airport users and members of the public to disregard the reports and avoid spreading unverified information.
The police warned that such reports could create unnecessary fear and panic, particularly among passengers and others who depend on the airport.
The clarification became necessary after the security activities generated concerns among people who witnessed or heard about the exercise without knowing its purpose.
Exercise Designed to Test Preparedness
The simulation formed part of efforts to strengthen security preparedness around critical airport infrastructure.
By recreating a potential security incident, the exercise allowed participating agencies to assess how effectively they could coordinate their responses during a real emergency.
The police said the exercise covered communication, command and control, emergency response and coordination among the relevant agencies.
Such simulations can help identify gaps before an actual security incident occurs.
Airport Security Remains Under Control
The Airport Police Command assured the public that the security situation at Asaba International Airport remained under control.
It also said security agencies continued to maintain vigilance around passengers, airport personnel, facilities and other stakeholders.
The Command further assured travellers that they could continue to use the airport with confidence.
It stressed that the security activities observed on September 10 were part of a controlled and authorised exercise rather than an attack.
Police Urge Public to Verify Information
The Command advised members of the public to rely on information from authorised government and security agencies when dealing with sensitive security incidents.
It also urged the public to support efforts aimed at strengthening national security preparedness and protecting critical airport infrastructure.
For the police, the episode underscores the dangers of circulating unverified security reports.
What appeared to some observers to be an emergency was, in fact, a deliberate test of the agencies responsible for responding when a real emergency occurs.
