The Ogun State Government has categorically dismissed as false and baseless the rumours circulating on social media and other platforms alleging that Fulani herdsmen, Boko Haram insurgents, and other terrorist groups are planning to invade the state. In a statement released by the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the government clarified that intelligence reports and security assessments from relevant agencies confirm that Ogun State remains safe and secure.
The government urged residents not to be misled by misinformation intended to create panic and fear among the populace, stressing that there is no credible threat of any impending terrorist invasion in the state. According to the statement, security agencies across Ogun State have remained vigilant, while proactive measures have been put in place to prevent any attempt by criminal elements to disrupt public peace and order.
“The Ogun State Government has noted with dismay the rumours being circulated on social media and across different platforms indicating that the state is under imminent threat of invasion by killer herders, Boko Haram terrorists fleeing military operations in the North-East, and other criminal groups,” Akinmade stated. “The true situation is that there is no imminent threat of invasion by any terrorist group. Security agencies and operatives across the state are on high alert, and adequate measures have already been put in place to checkmate any individual or group seeking to foment trouble or undermine public order.”
He noted that certain individuals appeared to be exploiting security challenges in other parts of the country to create unnecessary fear and anxiety among residents of Ogun State. “It is clear that some individuals are attempting to exploit security challenges being experienced in other parts of the country to create a climate of fear in Ogun State. This is highly irresponsible and capable of causing unnecessary anxiety among residents,” he added.
Akinmade further disclosed that security agencies had apprehended some individuals linked to the circulation of the false reports and misleading narratives on social media. According to him, those arrested are currently being prosecuted in accordance with the law, adding that the move is intended to serve as a deterrent to others who may seek to spread falsehoods, incite panic, or create chaos within the state. “Security agencies have identified and apprehended some of the individuals responsible for spreading these false narratives. They are currently facing prosecution, and this should serve as a clear warning to anyone seeking to deliberately spread misinformation, create panic, or disrupt public peace. The government will continue to work with security agencies to ensure that those who engage in such acts are held accountable,” he said.
The statement emphasized that Ogun State continues to enjoy strong collaboration among security agencies, local authorities, traditional institutions, and community stakeholders, a synergy it said has significantly enhanced intelligence gathering, rapid response capacity, and overall coordination in maintaining peace across the state. It further disclosed that the state government is working closely with all security agencies to strengthen state-specific security strategies aimed at ensuring lasting peace and stability. According to the government, the initiative is designed to deepen collaboration between conventional security agencies and traditional security structures at the grassroots level.
