The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating online that schoolchildren and teachers abducted from communities in Orire Local Government Area were transported to Kaduna State by helicopter, describing the claim as false and unsupported by any credible evidence.
The command said the viral social media video spreading the allegation was misleading and capable of creating confusion at a time security agencies are working to secure the release of the victims.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Ibadan, the state capital, Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said authorities had investigated the claims and found them to be entirely baseless.
“The attention of the Oyo State Police Command has been drawn to a misleading and unfounded video currently circulating on social media, alleging that the abducted schoolchildren and teachers from Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been moved to Kaduna State via a helicopter.
“The command wishes to categorically state that the content of the said video is entirely false, unverified, misleading, and devoid of any factual basis. The claim lacks credibility, substance, and the requisite threshold of authenticity expected of information relating to such a sensitive security matter.
“Members of the public are hereby informed that intensive rescue operations remain ongoing. 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 command is deeply concerned about the deliberate spread of misinformation and disinformation by certain individuals seeking to undermine public confidence in the ongoing rescue efforts and the sacrifices being made daily by security personnel working tirelessly to secure the release of the victims. Such actions are not only irresponsible but also capable of creating unnecessary panic, misleading the public, and obstructing security operations.
“The Oyo State Police Command therefore strongly warns against the dissemination of false, unverified, or malicious information, particularly on matters affecting public safety and national security. Individuals or groups found to be originating, promoting, or circulating misleading content intended to cast doubt on the integrity, professionalism, and commitment of security institutions will be identified and dealt with in accordance with the law.”
The police spokesperson stressed that rescue efforts remain active, with security operatives working alongside intelligence agencies to locate the victims, ensure their safe return and bring those responsible for the abduction to justice.
According to the command, the spread of unverified reports could undermine ongoing operations, erode public trust and create unnecessary anxiety among residents and relatives of the victims.
The police also appealed to members of the public to exercise caution when sharing information on social media and to rely only on official statements and verified sources for updates on the situation.
Reassuring residents of the state’s commitment to resolving the crisis, the command said security agencies were deploying all available resources to secure the victims’ freedom.
“The Oyo State Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property and assures the public that every available resource is being deployed to secure the safe return of the abducted children and teachers,” the statement added.
(Ripples)