Amid growing concerns over the fate of abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State, the Police Command yesterday debunked a viral report alleging the death of one of the victims, describing the publication as a fabrication aimed at creating panic and undermining ongoing rescue efforts.
The Command, in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, described the report as malicious, unfounded, and lacking any factual basis.
According to the police, neither the Oyo State Police Command nor any of the security agencies involved in ongoing rescue operations has confirmed such a development, reports Saturday Guardian.
“The Oyo State Police Command categorically states that the report is false, misleading, mischievous, and without any factual basis whatsoever. At no time has the Command, nor any other recognised security agency involved in the ongoing rescue efforts, confirmed such a development,” the statement said.
The Command alleged that the publication was deliberately fabricated to incite public anxiety, create panic, and undermine ongoing security operations.
It expressed concern over what it described as the deliberate use of emotional narratives, speculative claims, and unverified accounts to manipulate public opinion and heighten fear among residents.
“It is particularly disturbing that the authors of the report deliberately employed emotional narratives, speculative claims, and unverified accounts in a calculated attempt to manipulate public opinion and generate anxiety among residents,” the statement added.
The police further noted that the spread of such misinformation undermines responsible journalism and serves the interests of criminal elements who thrive on fear and uncertainty.
The Command reassured residents that security agencies are continuing efforts to secure the safe rescue of the abducted pupils, stressing that all operational activities are being conducted with professionalism, diligence, and confidentiality.
It warned that the dissemination of false information at a critical stage of rescue operations could jeopardise ongoing efforts, cause additional trauma to affected families, and mislead the public.
Consequently, the police cautioned bloggers, social media influencers, online content creators, and media organisations against publishing or amplifying unverified security-related information.
“The indiscriminate sharing of false reports, particularly those capable of inciting fear or causing public disorder, is irresponsible and unacceptable,” the Command stated.
The police also urged media practitioners and online publishers to exercise professionalism, responsibility, and due diligence in the discharge of their duties, warning against becoming channels for misinformation and fear mongering.
Residents were advised to disregard the report and rely only on information released through official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised 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.
For emergencies, the Command advised members of the public to contact the Oyo State Call Response Centre through the toll-free line 615, or the Oyo State Police Command Control Room on 08081768614 and 07055495413.
