The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading reports claiming that one of the schoolchildren abducted during the recent incident at Ahoro-Esiele in Oriire Local Government Area has died in captivity.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, described the report as “malicious, entirely unfounded, and without any factual basis whatsoever.”
According to the command, neither the police nor any of the security agencies involved in ongoing rescue operations has confirmed such a development.
“The publication is a fabrication carefully crafted by individuals whose objective is to arouse unnecessary public sentiment, create panic, spread fear, and undermine ongoing security operations,” the statement said.
The police expressed concern over what it described as the deliberate use of emotional narratives, speculative claims and unverified accounts aimed at manipulating public opinion and generating anxiety among residents.
The command noted that such actions not only undermine responsible journalism but also serve the interests of criminal elements who thrive on fear and uncertainty.
It reassured residents that security agencies are continuing efforts to secure the safe rescue of the abducted victims, stressing that all operational activities are being conducted with professionalism, diligence and confidentiality.
The police further warned that the spread of false information at a sensitive time could jeopardize rescue efforts, traumatize affected families and mislead the public.
The command therefore cautioned bloggers, social media influencers, online content creators and media organizations against publishing or amplifying unverified security-related information.
It urged media practitioners to exercise professionalism, responsibility and due diligence in reporting security matters, warning against becoming channels for misinformation and fearmongering.
Residents were advised to disregard the report entirely and rely only on information released through official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorized government agencies.
The Oyo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to public safety and security, assuring residents that verified updates on the incident would be communicated as necessary.
