The Oyo State Police Command has debunked a false social media claim that abducted school children 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’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said in a statement on Tuesday that the content of the said video was entirely false, unverified, misleading, and devoid of any factual basis.
“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 school children 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”, he said.
According to him, the claim lacks credibility, substance, and the requisite threshold of authenticity expected of information relating to such a sensitive security matter.
He informed members of the public 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”, he added.
The Command, therefore, warned against the dissemination of false, unverified, or malicious information, particularly on matters affecting public safety and national security.
He said 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 would be identified and dealt with in accordance with the law.
The Commander urged residents of the state and the general public to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of ongoing security efforts.
