The Kwara State Police Command has debunked false and misleading information circulating in Oke-Oyi and adjoining communities, alleging the presence of bandits in the area.
Details of the Incident
In a statement, the command reported that around 9:15 a.m., it received reports of panic and commotion at Government Girls Secondary School, Oke-Oyi, following claims that suspected bandits had invaded the school premises. Upon receiving the information, the Divisional Police Officer of Oke-Oyi Division promptly mobilized personnel to the scene to assess the situation and ensure the safety of students, staff, and residents.
Preliminary Findings
The command stated that preliminary findings revealed the alarm originated from a woman who reportedly rushed into the school premises claiming that bandits had arrived in the area. This unverified claim triggered panic among students and teachers, resulting in a temporary disruption of academic activities.
Confirmation of False Alarm
The command’s assessment confirmed that the report was entirely false and lacked any factual basis. There was no bandit attack, no sighting of bandits, and no security breach within the school or anywhere in Oke-Oyi community or Kwara State.
Commissioner Condemns Misinformation
The Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Ojo Adekimi, condemned the spread of false security alerts that can create fear, panic, and public disorder. He noted that disseminating unverified information, particularly on sensitive security matters, undermines public confidence and may divert critical security resources from genuine emergencies.
Legal Action Against Perpetrator
The command has commenced efforts to identify the individual responsible for raising the false alarm. Upon identification, the person will be invited for questioning and made to face the full weight of the law in accordance with extant legal provisions relating to the spread of false information and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.
Appeal to Residents
Residents are urged to remain vigilant but calm and to refrain from spreading rumors or unverified security information. Members of the public are encouraged to verify security-related information through appropriate channels and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police formation.
