Edo Speaker Reacts to Reported Kidnap of Schoolchildren in His Constituency

The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, has dismissed reports claiming that schoolchildren were kidnapped in Owan Local Government Area of the state, describing the information as false and misleading.

Agbebaku made the clarification during a press conference held on Thursday in Benin, following the circulation of a viral video alleging that bandits had abducted students in his constituency.

The Speaker described the report as a false alarm and an act of sabotage allegedly aimed at creating panic and destabilising the state government.

According to him, he visited Owan West, his constituency, over the weekend, where he met with members of the local security network to strengthen vigilance and improve community safety.

He stated that no kidnapping incident had been recorded in the area, describing Owan as a peaceful community populated by law-abiding residents from different ethnic backgrounds.

Agbebaku disclosed that the individual responsible for spreading the rumour had been arrested and would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

He added that the local government chairman and the Divisional Police Officer had independently confirmed that no abduction took place in the area.

The Speaker noted that the false report created unnecessary fear among students, causing some of them to flee their schools for safety.

He appealed to parents and residents to remain calm, assuring them that the situation was under control and urging students to return to their academic activities.

Agbebaku also pledged to continue working with security agencies to strengthen protection around schools and communities within his constituency.

He commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for prioritising security in the state, adding that the Edo State House of Assembly had approved several security interventions and equipment aimed at improving crime prevention efforts.

The Speaker urged residents to rely on verified information from relevant authorities and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports capable of causing panic.