Oyo Abduction: No Schoolchild Died in Captivity — Police
The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports alleging that one of the schoolchildren abducted during the recent attack on three schools in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, died while in captivity, describing the claim as false, malicious and misleading.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the report was the handiwork of individuals bent on spreading misinformation and creating unnecessary panic among residents.
According to the Command, neither the police nor any security agency involved in the ongoing rescue operation has confirmed such a development. It stressed that the publication was a fabrication designed to stir public emotions, spread fear and undermine efforts being made to secure the release of the abductees.
“The Oyo State Police Command has observed with grave concern the circulation of a malicious and entirely unfounded report alleging that one of the schoolchildren abducted during the recent incident at Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, has died while in captivity,” the statement read.
“The Command categorically states that the report is false, misleading, mischievous and without any factual basis whatsoever. At no time has the Oyo State Police Command, nor any other recognised security agency involved in the ongoing rescue efforts, confirmed such a development.”
The police further condemned the use of emotional narratives, speculative claims and unverified accounts to manipulate public opinion, noting that such actions serve the interests of criminal elements who thrive on fear, uncertainty and public distress.
The Command assured residents that security agencies remain fully committed to rescuing the victims, adding that operations are being carried out with professionalism, diligence and confidentiality. It warned that the spread of false information could jeopardise ongoing efforts, traumatise affected families and mislead the public.
The police also cautioned bloggers, social media influencers, online content creators and media organisations against publishing or amplifying unverified security-related information, stressing that responsible journalism and due diligence are essential, particularly during sensitive security operations.
DSP Ayanlade urged members of the public to disregard the report entirely and rely only on information released through official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised government agencies.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to public safety and assured residents that verified updates would be communicated as developments unfold.