Ondo Police and Government Clear Air on Kidnapping Rumours

The Ondo State Government and the state Police Command on Wednesday said reports on social media about a kidnapping in a school in Akure are not true.

Ebenezer Adeniyan, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, said there is no record of any kidnapping in any school in Akure. He called the reports false and assured the public that all schools are safe and running normally.

“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, like the police and Amotekun Corps, have checked the school areas in 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 said.

The government asked residents, especially parents, to ignore the rumour and not share unverified news that can 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 added.

The administration assured the public that the safety of children and teachers is a priority and encouraged residents to report real security issues to the nearest security agency.

The Ondo State Police Command also denied the rumour, calling it false and a potential cause for public fear.

In a statement from its spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Command said there is no credible information or reported incident 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 that those who do will be investigated and prosecuted.

It also encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or official channels. The police assured the public of their commitment to safety and security across the state.