Police dismiss Ekiti abduction reports, warn against fake news
By Boye Oyeyemi
The Ekiti State Police Command has denied reports circulating on social media alleging that passengers travelling in a commercial bus from Ado-Ekiti were kidnapped along the Aramoko-Ekiti Road, describing the claim as false and misleading.
The command said the report, which surfaced online over the weekend, was intended to create fear among residents and distort the security situation in the state.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, the command disclosed that intelligence and tactical teams were immediately deployed to verify the allegation.
According to the police, investigations showed that no such attack or abduction occurred anywhere in Ekiti State, contrary to the claims being shared on social media platforms.
The command alleged that the report was deliberately fabricated by individuals seeking to spread panic and undermine the efforts of security agencies and the state government.
It also expressed concern over the increasing circulation of unverified security alerts, noting that similar false reports relating to kidnappings and other criminal activities had recently emerged in the state.
The police warned that the creation and dissemination of fake security information constitute criminal offences and vowed to identify and prosecute those responsible for spreading falsehoods.
While urging residents to disregard the alleged kidnapping report, the command advised members of the public to verify information before sharing it and to promptly report suspicious activities, assuring citizens that security agencies remain committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
