The Oyo State Police Command has officially refuted circulating social media reports alleging the movement and infiltration of suspected Lukarawa terrorists into forests near Ogbomoso and the Old Oyo National Park. The command described these claims as false, misleading, and capable of inciting unnecessary panic among residents.
Police Statement on Alleged Terrorist Activity
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Police Public Relations Officer Olayinka Ayanlade confirmed that comprehensive intelligence assessments and security reports available to the command do not support any claims of terrorist movement or infiltration within the affected areas. Preliminary investigations revealed that the video and accompanying voice note being circulated are not recent but rather old materials that have been deliberately recycled and misrepresented to create fear and apprehension among residents.
The statement read: "The Command unequivocally rejects and dismisses the claims contained in the said video and voice note as false, misleading and entirely without factual basis."
Call for Responsible Information Sharing
The command urged members of the public to refrain from sharing unverified security-related information and to seek confirmation from official sources before disseminating such reports. Despite dismissing the allegations, the police have strategically deployed intelligence and covert operatives to border communities and other vulnerable locations within the Ogbomoso axis to strengthen existing security measures and early warning systems.
These operatives are working closely with local security structures, traditional institutions, hunters, vigilante groups, and community-based intelligence networks to enhance information gathering and ensure swift responses to any emerging security threats.
Enhanced Security Measures
The police added that visibility policing, confidence-building patrols, intelligence-led stop-and-search operations, and strategic deployments have been intensified across Ogbomoso, the Old Oyo National Park axis, and adjoining border communities. The command expressed concern over the increasing circulation of fake news, misinformation, and unverified security alerts on social media, warning that such reports could undermine public confidence, disrupt economic activities, and divert security resources from genuine security challenges.
It stressed that the dissemination of false security information constitutes a criminal offence punishable under existing laws, warning individuals involved in originating or spreading such reports to desist immediately.
Assurance of Safety
The command assured residents that there is currently no credible intelligence indicating the presence or infiltration of the purported terrorist group anywhere in Oyo State. Therefore, residents are urged to remain calm, continue their lawful activities without fear, and rely only on verified information released through official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other recognised security agencies.
The police also urged residents, particularly those in border communities and rural settlements, to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agency.
