Ondo Government and Police Clear Air on Kidnapping Rumours

The Ondo State Government and the police have denied reports on social media claiming there was a kidnapping in a school in Akure.

In a statement from Ebenezer Adeniyan, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the government called the reports false. They stated there is no record of any kidnapping at primary, secondary, or tertiary schools in Akure.

“The Government categorically states that there is no record, report, or incident of kidnapping in any primary, secondary, or tertiary institution in Akure. All schools in the state capital are safe, open, and conducting academic activities without disruption,” the statement said.

The statement also mentioned that security agencies, including the police, Amotekun Corps, and the Department of State Services (DSS), have checked schools around Akure and confirmed everything is normal.

“Security agencies, including the Police, Amotekun Corps, and DSS, have verified all school environments in Akure and confirmed normalcy. The Government, in collaboration with school authorities and parents, has maintained strict security protocols across all schools to ensure the safety of pupils and students at all times,” it added.

The government asked residents, especially parents and guardians, to ignore the rumour and stop spreading unverified information that could cause panic.

“We urge members of the public, especially parents and guardians, to disregard the fake news and refrain from sharing unverified information that is capable of causing panic and anxiety,” it continued.

They assured that the safety of children and teachers is a top priority for the administration. They also encouraged residents to report real security issues to the nearest security agency.

The Ondo State Police Command also dismissed the rumour, calling it false and likely to create public fear.

In a statement from their spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Command said there is no credible information or report of bandits in Akure.

“The Command wishes to categorically dismiss the rumours currently circulating in some parts of Akure and on social media alleging an invasion of bandits within the metropolis,” it stated.

“The Command wishes to assure residents, particularly parents, students, school authorities, and the general public, that there is no credible intelligence or reported incident indicating the presence or invasion of bandits in Akure. Security assessments and intelligence gathering efforts conducted by the Command have not revealed any threat that should warrant panic or disruption of normal activities,” it added.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, urged residents to stay calm and let students continue their studies without fear.

The Command warned against spreading false information, saying offenders would be investigated and prosecuted.

They also encouraged people to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through official channels.

The police promised to keep working to ensure safety and security across the state.