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• Panic in Oyo, police dismiss terrorists’ infiltration claims in Ogbomoso
From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Oyo State Police Command has debunked reports circulating on social media alleging that suspected Lukarawa terrorists have infiltrated forests around Ogbomoso and the Old Oyo National Park, describing the claims as false, misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ayanlade Olayinka, said: “Intelligence assessments and security reports available to law enforcement agencies do not support claims of any terrorist movement or infiltration within the affected areas.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the video and accompanying voice note being shared online are not recent but old materials deliberately recycled and misrepresented to create fear and apprehension among residents of Oyo State.”
The command urged members of the public to “avoid sharing unverified security-related content and always seek confirmation from official sources before disseminating information that could threaten public peace.”
Despite dismissing the reports as false, police said: “Proactive measures have been taken to strengthen security across the state. Intelligence and covert operatives have been strategically deployed to border communities and other vulnerable locations around the Ogbomoso axis to reinforce existing security structures and early warning mechanisms.
“Security operatives are working closely with local security networks, traditional rulers, hunters, vigilante groups and community stakeholders to improve intelligence gathering, information sharing and rapid response to emerging threats.
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“Visibility policing, confidence-building patrols, intelligence-led stop-and-search operations and strategic deployments have been intensified in Ogbomoso, the Old Oyo National Park axis and adjoining communities to reassure residents and deter criminal activities.”
While calling on citizens to remain vigilant, the police encouraged residents, especially those in border communities and rural settlements, to promptly report suspicious persons, movements or activities to security agencies.
The command also expressed concern over what it described as the growing trend 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 threats.
It stressed that the deliberate dissemination of false security information constitutes a criminal offence under existing laws and warned individuals responsible for originating or spreading such reports to desist immediately.
The police vowed to identify, investigate, arrest and prosecute anyone found culpable of spreading falsehoods capable of jeopardising public peace and security.
“There is currently no credible intelligence indicating the presence of the purported terrorist group anywhere in Oyo State.”
It urged citizens to remain calm, continue their lawful activities without fear and rely only on verified information from the Nigeria Police Force and other recognised security agencies.
The command also advised the public to disregard the viral video and voice note in their entirety while pledging its continued commitment to maintaining peace, safety and security across the state.
