Ondo Government and Police Clear Air on Kidnapping Rumours

The Ondo State Government and the state Police Command on Wednesday denied reports on social media about a kidnapping in a school in Akure.

In a statement from Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the government said the claims were false. They confirmed that there was no record of any kidnapping in any primary, secondary, or tertiary school 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.

It also mentioned that security agencies, including the police, Amotekun Corps, and the Department of State Services (DSS), checked the school environments in Akure and confirmed everything was 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,” the statement added.

The government asked residents, especially parents and guardians, to ignore the rumour and not share 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 said.

The administration assured that the safety of children and teachers is a priority and advised people to report any real security issues to the nearest security agency.

The Ondo State Police Command also dismissed the rumour, saying it was false and could create public panic.

In a statement signed by spokesperson DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Command stated that there was no credible information or reports 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 said.

“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, stating that those who do will be investigated and prosecuted.

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

The police assured the public of their ongoing commitment to safety and security throughout the state.