The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports claiming that one of the pupils abducted during the recent terrorist attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State died while in captivity, describing the publication as false, malicious and capable of undermining ongoing rescue efforts.
The command said there was no truth in the report circulating on social media and some online platforms, insisting that no security agency involved in the operation had confirmed the death of any of the victims.
The clarification comes amid growing anxiety over the fate of pupils and teachers abducted during an attack on three schools in Ahoro-Esienle, Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State.
In a statement issued on Friday, Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, accused purveyors of misinformation of deliberately spreading unverified claims capable of causing panic among residents and relatives of the victims.
According to him, the command views the publication as a calculated attempt to manipulate public sentiment and create fear at a time security agencies are intensifying efforts to secure the safe release of those in captivity.
The police stressed that neither the command nor any recognised security agency participating in the rescue operation had issued any statement confirming the death of any abducted pupil.
Olayinka said spreading false information at a sensitive stage of rescue operations could have serious consequences, including causing unnecessary trauma to affected families and potentially jeopardising ongoing security efforts.
The command warned bloggers, social media influencers, content creators and media organisations against publishing or amplifying security-related information without proper verification.
According to the police spokesperson, the indiscriminate circulation of false reports can contribute to public disorder and inadvertently advance the objectives of criminal groups who seek to instill fear among citizens.
The warning comes as security agencies continue efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers. Authorities have repeatedly assured residents that operations are ongoing and that every available resource is being deployed to secure the victims’ freedom.
The abduction in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State has renewed concerns about security around schools, particularly in rural communities where criminal elements have increasingly targeted educational institutions.
The police urged residents to rely solely on information released through official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised government agencies.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, promising to provide updates as verified information becomes available while rescue operations continue.
