The Delta State Government in South-South Nigeria this morning rubbished reports of alleged heavy shooting in Warri, the state’s economic capital.

The State Government categorically declared in a statement signed by Secretary to the State Government, Comrade Ovuozorie Macaulay, that “there has been no shooting of any form in Warri or environ.”

The statement said: “The attention of the Delta State Government has been drawn to media reports especially the on-line media of heavy shooting in Warri. The State wishes to state categorically that there has been no shooting of any form in Warri or environ.

“In line with the agreement with NNPC for provision of security by the State Government for the $16 Billion Gas City Project in Ogidigben, the State Security Council at its last meeting in Warri on 30th December 2013, directed the security agencies to deploy some forces to the area to ensure the safety of lives and properties as the construction of the project will start in the next few days. Some of the forces were deployed today, 4th January, 2014. None of the forces has had cause to shoot any gun and nobody has been injured or dead.

“The State Government is aware that some enemies of progress are out to thwart this laudable project of President Goodluck Jonathan which will form the economic bedrock for Nigeria.

“Warri has been very safe and it is on record that there were no insecurity incidences in Warri and other parts of Delta State throughout the Christmas or New Year period. The Government shall not be intimated by anyone and all those spreading such seditious falsehood should desist from it.

“All law abiding citizens are advised to go about their normal activities and we shall ensure safety of their lives and properties.”

•Photo shows Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan.