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IBADAN – The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading a viral social media report claiming that schoolchildren and teachers abducted from Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of the state had been transported to Kaduna State by helicopter.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the Command described the video circulating online as unfounded, unverified and lacking any credible basis.
According to the police, the claim does not meet the standard of authenticity required for information relating to a sensitive security matter and should be disregarded by members of the public.
The Command stressed that intensive efforts are still underway to rescue the abducted victims, noting that security agencies have significantly intensified operations aimed at ensuring their safe return.
“The Oyo State Police Command, in close collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies, has significantly intensified efforts aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of all abducted victims, their prompt reunification with their families, and the apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for the unfortunate incident,” the statement read.
The police expressed concern over what it described as the deliberate spread of misinformation by individuals seeking to undermine public confidence in ongoing rescue operations.
According to the Command, the circulation of false information is capable of creating unnecessary panic among residents, misleading the public and obstructing the work of security agencies.
The Command warned that individuals or groups found to be originating or spreading false reports intended to discredit security institutions would face legal consequences.
It urged residents of Oyo State to remain calm, vigilant and supportive of ongoing security operations, while relying only on information released through official and verified channels.
The police further appealed to the public to refrain from sharing speculative or unconfirmed reports regarding the abduction case, emphasizing that every available resource is being deployed to secure the safe return of the victims.
Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the Command assured residents that security personnel remain fully dedicated to rescuing the abducted children and teachers and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
