The Oyo State Police Command has denied reports alleging that a pastor was arrested in connection with the abduction of students and teachers in the Orire area of the state.
The command described the claim as false, misleading and unfounded, saying no pastor had been arrested by the police or any other security agency involved in the ongoing rescue operation.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the command said the viral report falsely claimed that a cleric had been arrested for allegedly supplying arms and ammunition to those behind the abduction.
According to the police, the report, which circulated on Facebook and other online platforms, did not identify the alleged pastor or provide any credible address or supporting details.
“The Command wishes to categorically state that this claim is entirely false, misleading and unfounded,” the statement said.
It added that no such arrest had been made by the police or any other known security agency involved in the ongoing rescue operation, while investigation into the abduction was still ongoing.
The command said the publication appeared to be a deliberate attempt to distract security operatives from ongoing efforts to rescue the abducted victims and to cast doubt on the integrity and professionalism of officers working on the case.
“The Command views this publication as a deliberate attempt to distract security operatives from ongoing rescue efforts and to cast doubt on the integrity, commitment and professionalism of personnel working tirelessly to ensure the safe return of the victims,” it stated.
The police urged members of the public to disregard the report and rely only on official information released through verified communication channels of the command.
It also warned individuals and online platforms involved in spreading false information to desist, stressing that anyone found disseminating misinformation capable of undermining public confidence or jeopardising security operations would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“Individuals and platforms involved in the deliberate spread of false information are warned to desist,” the command said, adding that it would not hesitate to invoke lawful measures to identify, investigate, arrest and prosecute offenders.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to securing the safe rescue of the abducted students and teachers, while assuring residents that efforts were ongoing to maintain peace and security across the state.