In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the Command described the claims—shared through a viral video and accompanying voice note—as misleading and without any factual basis, stressing that intelligence and security assessments do not support such allegations.
The Command explained that investigations showed the video in circulation is an old clip that has been deliberately recirculated and misrepresented as a recent development in a bid to cause panic among residents.
“The Oyo State Police Command unequivocally rejects and dismisses the claims as false, misleading and entirely without factual basis,” the statement said.
Residents were advised to always confirm security-related information through official police channels before sharing on social media platforms.
Despite debunking the reports, the Command said it has further strengthened security deployment across the affected areas to reassure the public and maintain peace.
It disclosed that intelligence and covert operatives have been strategically positioned across border communities and vulnerable locations within the Ogbomoso axis to reinforce surveillance and improve early warning systems.
The Command added that these operatives are working in collaboration with traditional rulers, local security outfits, hunters, vigilante groups and community leaders to enhance intelligence gathering and ensure swift response to any threat.
According to the police, visibility policing, confidence-building patrols, intelligence-driven stop-and-search operations and other tactical deployments have been intensified across Ogbomoso, the Old Oyo National Park corridor and surrounding border communities.
These measures, it said, are aimed at preventing criminal activity, reassuring residents and sustaining the relative peace currently enjoyed in the area.
The Command also urged residents, especially those in rural and border communities, to remain alert and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security formation or through designated emergency contacts.
It expressed concern over the rising spread of fake news and unverified security alerts on social media, warning that such misinformation can trigger unnecessary panic and disrupt normal economic and social activities.
“The dissemination of false security information is not only irresponsible and unethical but also constitutes a criminal offence punishable under extant laws,” the statement warned.
The police further cautioned individuals involved in creating or circulating false information capable of causing public fear to desist immediately, adding that offenders would be tracked, investigated and prosecuted.
Reassuring residents, the Command stated that there is currently no credible intelligence suggesting any presence or infiltration of the alleged terrorist group in any part of Oyo State.
It therefore urged citizens to remain calm, go about their lawful activities without fear, and rely strictly on verified information from the Nigeria Police Force and other recognised security agencies.
The Command concluded by calling on the public to disregard the viral video and voice note entirely, emphasizing that responsible information sharing, vigilance and cooperation with security agencies remain critical to sustaining peace and security in the state.