Oyo police debunk death claims of abducted Oriire schoolchildren, caution against misinformation

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that one of the schoolchildren abducted during the recent attack on Ahoro-Esiele community in Oriire Local Government Area died in captivity, describing the report as false and misleading.

The command said no security agency involved in the ongoing rescue operation had confirmed such a development, stressing that the information was entirely unfounded. The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka.

According to the police, the claim of a kidnapped schoolchild’s death did not originate from any verified security source and should be disregarded by members of the public. The Command noted that neither the police nor any other agency participating in the rescue mission had reported the death of any victim.

The statement accused those behind the publication of deliberately fabricating the story to create panic, spread fear and undermine ongoing efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers. It added that the report was designed to manipulate public sentiment through emotional narratives and unverified claims.

The police described the dissemination of such misinformation as disturbing and irresponsible, warning that false reports could inadvertently aid criminal elements who thrive on fear, confusion and public anxiety. It noted that the spread of inaccurate information at a critical stage of the operation could jeopardise rescue efforts.

The command therefore cautioned bloggers, social media influencers, online content creators and media organisations against publishing or sharing unverified security-related information. It stressed that indiscriminate dissemination of false reports could incite fear, disrupt public order and erode confidence in security operations.

While urging media practitioners to uphold professional standards, the police advised journalists and content creators to verify information through official channels before publication. It warned against becoming conduits for misinformation capable of causing unnecessary distress to affected families and communities.

Reassuring residents of its commitment to the safe return of the victims, the command said security agencies were actively pursuing all available leads and handling operational details with professionalism and confidentiality. It urged members of the public to rely solely on official statements from the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised security agencies, promising to provide updates as verified information becomes available.