The Edo State Police Command has debunked claims that students of Green Park Academy, Aduwawa, Benin City, were kidnapped, describing the report as entirely false and warning that the person behind its spread would be tracked down and prosecuted.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said the false narrative was being propagated by a woman popularly known as “Azawoman” on social media, generating unnecessary concern among members of the public.
“The Edo State Police Command has become aware of a misleading and unfounded report circulating on social media alleging that students of Green Park Academy, Aduwawa, Benin City, were kidnapped. The false narrative, which is being propagated by a woman popularly known as ‘Azawoman,’ has generated unnecessary concern among members of the public,” the statement read.
Following a thorough verification exercise, the command said no kidnapping incident occurred at the school.
“Findings reveal that the report is entirely false, lacks any factual basis, and was deliberately disseminated to misinform the public and create unwarranted panic within the State,” it stated.
The command said it strongly condemned the reckless spread of false information, warning of the danger such actions pose to public order.
“The Command strongly condemns the reckless spread of false information capable of undermining public confidence, causing fear among residents, and diverting attention from genuine security concerns. Such actions constitute a threat to public order and will not be tolerated,” the statement added.
Consequently, the command said it had commenced steps to apprehend the originator of the false report for questioning and possible prosecution in accordance with extant laws.
The public was urged to exercise restraint and responsibility in the use of social media by verifying information through credible and official sources before sharing.
The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, reassured residents that the security situation in the state remained under control and appreciated the continued cooperation of law-abiding citizens, calling for sustained support in the collective effort to maintain peace, security and public order across Edo State.
The Edo Police Command’s swift response to the viral kidnap claim reflects a broader and growing challenge facing law enforcement agencies across Nigeria, the spread of false security information on social media platforms that triggers mass panic, disrupts communities and diverts attention and resources from genuine emergencies.
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