Police dismiss claim abducted Oyo pupils, teachers transferred to Kaduna

Oyo State Police have dismissed social media reports alleging that schoolchildren and teachers abducted from communities in the Orire Local Government Area were airlifted to Kaduna State. The Command characterized the circulating video as false, misleading, and entirely unverified.

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The Command wishes to categorically state that the content of the said video is entirely false, unverified, misleading, and devoid of any factual basis.

In a statement released Tuesday, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Olayinka Ayanlade confirmed the Command's awareness of the video. The video falsely claimed that victims abducted from the Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities had been moved out of Oyo State. Police stated the information lacked credibility, substance, and the necessary authenticity for such a sensitive security matter.

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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 reassured residents that efforts to rescue the abducted individuals are actively continuing. Security agencies have significantly intensified operations aimed at securing their safe release and ensuring the prompt reunification with their families. The police are also committed to apprehending and prosecuting those responsible for the abduction.

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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.

Police expressed concern over deliberate attempts to spread misinformation, which they believe undermines public confidence in security operations. They warned that disseminating false or malicious information regarding public safety and national security could obstruct ongoing operations and incite unnecessary panic. The Command cautioned individuals and groups against originating or circulating misleading content that casts doubt on the integrity and professionalism of security agencies, stating that such actions will be met with legal consequences.

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Such actions are not only irresponsible but also capable of creating unnecessary panic, misleading the public, and obstructing security operations.