Edo Police Clarify That No Students Were Kidnapped

The Edo State Police Command has said that reports about students from Green Park Academy, Aduwawa, Benin City, being kidnapped are false. They warned that the person spreading this news will be found and punished.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said the fake news was started by a woman known as “Azawoman” on social media. This news caused unnecessary fear among 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.

After checking thoroughly, the police confirmed that there was no kidnapping incident 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 police strongly condemned the careless sharing of false information. They warned that such actions can harm 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.

As a result, the police have started actions to find the person who made the false report for questioning and possible prosecution according to the law.

The public is advised to be careful and responsible when using social media. They should verify information with reliable and official sources before sharing.

The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, assured residents that security in the state is under control. He thanked law-abiding citizens for their support and called for continued efforts to keep peace, safety, and public order in Edo State.

The quick response of the Edo Police to the false kidnap claim shows a larger problem that law enforcement agencies face in Nigeria. This includes the spread of false security information on social media that causes panic, disrupts communities, and takes attention and resources away from real emergencies.