The Oyo State Police command has debunked false reports on the release of abducted teachers and students kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, last Friday.
A statement released by its spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, in Ibadan, the state capital, on Friday, decried the spreading of fake news and misinformation to create unnecessary panic.
He urged the residents to always fact-check their information before releasing it on social media.
The PUNCH reports that scores of teachers and students were abducted during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, on Friday, around 9:30 a.m.
The statement read, “The Oyo State Police command wishes to inform the general public that the abducted students, pupils, and teachers in Orire Local Government Area are yet to be released, as intensive efforts by security agencies continue to ensure their safe rescue and the arrest of those responsible for the criminal act.
“The command hereby debunks the rumour currently circulating that the victims have been rescued. Members of the public are urged to remain calm, support the ongoing effort of the joint security team, and verify every piece of information before sharing it.
“The spread of fake news and misinformation only creates unnecessary panic, heightens tension, and diverts limited security resources that are critically needed for the ongoing operations.”
The police assured the good people of Oyo State that updates and verified facts will be communicated as developments unfold.
“Individuals seeking clarification or authentic information are advised to contact the PPRO or the command’s control room,” it stressed.
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