By Dayo Johnson
AKURE — The Ondo State Government and the State Police Command have dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging a bandit invasion and the kidnapping of students in a school within Akure metropolis.
In separate statements, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, and Police Public Relations Officer, Jimoh Abayomi, assured residents that there was no credible intelligence or reported incident suggesting the presence of bandits in the state.
Adeniyan said the government became aware of false reports circulating on social media and messaging platforms alleging a kidnapping in a school in Akure.
“The government categorically states that there is no record, report or incident of kidnapping in any primary, secondary or tertiary institution in Akure.
“All schools in the state capital are safe, open and conducting academic activities without disruption,” he said.
According to him, security agencies, including the Police, Amotekun Corps and the Department of State Services (DSS), had verified the situation across schools in Akure and confirmed that normal activities were ongoing.
He added that the government, in collaboration with school authorities and parents, had maintained strict security measures across schools to ensure the safety of pupils and students.
“We urge members of the public, especially parents and guardians, to disregard the fake news and refrain from sharing unverified information capable of causing panic and anxiety.
“The safety of our children and teachers remains a top priority for the Aiyedatiwa administration,” Adeniyan stated.
He advised residents with genuine security concerns to report directly to the nearest police station or Amotekun office.
Also speaking, Abayomi said comprehensive security assessments and intelligence gathering conducted by the command had not revealed any threat warranting panic or disruption of normal activities.
He urged parents and guardians not to be alarmed by unverified information capable of creating unnecessary fear and anxiety.
“Students are encouraged to continue their academic activities without apprehension, as adequate security measures have been put in place across the state to guarantee the safety of lives and property,” he said.
The police command warned against the deliberate spread of false information capable of causing public disorder, noting that anyone found disseminating misinformation intended to incite panic would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Abayomi advised residents to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities through the nearest police station or established emergency channels.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents and urged the public to rely only on verified information from official sources.
