Police counter curfew rumors in Ibadan, warn against misinformation

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating in some quarters alleging the imposition of a curfew and restriction of movement within and outside Ibadan, describing the claims as false and misleading.

The command assured residents that there is currently no security situation warranting panic or apprehension, stressing that normal activities should continue across the state without fear.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the command said adequate security measures had already been put in place to guarantee the safety of residents.

The statement noted that officers and operatives of the command had been strategically deployed across different parts of the state to maintain law and order and ensure the protection of lives and property.

The police also warned individuals and groups against spreading false information, rumours, or unverified reports capable of creating panic, fear, and emotional distress among members of the public.

According to the command, anyone found engaging in the dissemination of fake security alerts or misleading information would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The command advised residents to disregard the reports and remain law-abiding, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies in the collective effort to sustain peace and public order across Oyo State.

It added that any official security directive, restriction, or emergency measure would only be communicated through the Office of the Police Public Relations Officer and disseminated through verified conventional and digital media platforms. The police also urged residents to make use of the Oyo State Call Response Centre toll-free line 615 and the Command’s control room numbers in the event of emergencies.