Oyo Abduction: No Schoolchild Died in Captivity — Police

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports alleging that one of the schoolchildren abducted during the recent attack on schools in Ahoro-Esienle, Oriire Local Government Area, died while in captivity, describing the claim as false and misleading.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the report was the handiwork of individuals spreading misinformation and attempting to create unnecessary panic among the public.

According to the police, no security agency involved in the ongoing rescue efforts has confirmed the death of any of the abducted pupils. The Command maintained that the publication was entirely fabricated and designed to generate fear, anxiety, and public distress while undermining ongoing security operations.

“The Oyo State Police Command has observed with grave concern the circulation of a malicious and entirely unfounded report alleging that one of the schoolchildren abducted during the recent incident at Ahoro-Esienle, Oriire Local Government Area, has died while in captivity,” the statement said.

The Command further stated that the report employed emotional narratives, speculative claims, and unverified information to manipulate public opinion and fuel uncertainty at a sensitive time.

Police authorities warned that the spread of false information could jeopardise rescue efforts, traumatise affected families, and create confusion among members of the public. They stressed that misinformation ultimately serves the interests of criminal elements by spreading fear and weakening public confidence.

The Command appealed to media organisations, bloggers, social media influencers, and online content creators to exercise professionalism and verify information before publication, particularly on security-related matters.

It also cautioned against amplifying unverified reports capable of inciting fear or causing public disorder, noting that such actions are irresponsible and detrimental to ongoing operations.

DSP Olayinka urged residents to disregard the report entirely and rely only on information released through official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised government agencies.

The police reaffirmed their commitment to securing the safe release of the abducted pupils and maintaining public safety, assuring residents that verified updates would be communicated as developments unfold.