The Oyo State Police Command has debunked reports alleging that one of the schoolchildren abducted during the recent attack on three schools in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, has died while in captivity.
The Command described the report as false, malicious, and entirely without factual basis, warning members of the public against the spread of unverified information capable of causing panic and undermining ongoing security operations.
This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade.
According to the police spokesperson, neither the Oyo State Police Command nor any of the security agencies involved in the rescue operation has confirmed the death of any abducted victim.
“The Oyo State Police Command has observed with grave concern the circulation of a malicious and entirely unfounded report alleging that one of the schoolchildren abducted during the recent incident at Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, has died while in captivity,” the statement said.
“The Command categorically states that the report is false, misleading, mischievous, and without any factual basis whatsoever.”
The police alleged that the publication was deliberately fabricated by individuals seeking to spread fear, create public anxiety, and frustrate ongoing efforts by security agencies to secure the release of the abducted victims.
The Command further condemned the use of emotional narratives, speculation, and unverified claims to influence public opinion, describing such actions as irresponsible and harmful to both the affected families and security operations.
According to the statement, the spread of false information at a critical time could jeopardize rescue efforts and cause unnecessary trauma to relatives of the victims.
The Police Command assured residents that security agencies remain actively engaged in efforts to rescue all abductees and bring the perpetrators to justice.
DSP Ayanlade emphasized that all operational activities relating to the incident are being handled with professionalism, diligence, and the necessary level of confidentiality.
The Command also cautioned bloggers, social media influencers, online content creators, and media organizations against publishing or amplifying unverified security-related information.
It stressed that the indiscriminate dissemination of false reports capable of inciting fear or public disorder is unacceptable and contrary to responsible journalism.
The police therefore urged members of the public to disregard the alleged 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 protecting lives and property while assuring residents that verified updates regarding the incident would be communicated through appropriate official platforms as developments unfold.