The Edo State Police Command has apprehended a 42-year-old man, Ernest Ugbomoiko, for raising a false alarm that bandits and kidnappers had abducted school children in parts of the state.
Official Statement
The command's spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed this in a statement on 18th June 2026, describing the report as false and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.
The command advised members of the public to verify security-related information through official channels before sharing it. It also warned people to refrain from deliberately spreading false information that could threaten public peace.
Details of the Incident
According to the statement: "The Edo State Police Command has identified one Ernest Ugbomoiko, male, 42 years, of Afuze Community, as the individual responsible for originating and circulating the false information alleging that bandits and kidnappers had abducted school children in parts of Edo State, including Afuze, Ehor, Otuo, Agbede and Igueben."
The command emphasized that the report is false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic. It confirmed that no incident of school children being kidnapped occurred in the mentioned areas or any other part of Edo State.
Security Measures
The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, reassured the public that the deployment of security personnel to schools and other vulnerable locations across the state was not in response to this false report. However, these deployments, which were part of proactive policing strategies, have been intensified throughout the state on his directives.
Parents, guardians, school administrators, and students are advised to go about their lawful activities without fear, as adequate security measures remain in place to guarantee their safety.
Legal Warning
The command warned that individuals who deliberately spread false information capable of threatening public peace, undermining security operations, or causing public disorder will be investigated and prosecuted according to the law. The public is encouraged to verify security-related information through official channels before sharing such reports.
