The Oyo State Police Command has denied reports claiming that pupils, students and teachers abducted during last Friday’s attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state have regained freedom.
The command clarified that the victims are still in captivity, adding that security agencies are intensifying efforts to rescue them and arrest those responsible for the attack.
Police dismiss viral rescue reports
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, made the clarification in a statement issued on Friday in Ibadan.
According to the police, information circulating online about the release of the abducted victims is false and should be ignored by the public.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the abducted students, pupils, and teachers in Orire Local Government Area are yet to be released, as intensive efforts by security agencies continue to ensure their safe rescue and the arrest of those responsible for the criminal act,” the statement read.
“The Command hereby debunks the rumour currently circulating that the victims have been rescued.”
Residents urged to remain calm
The police appealed to residents to stay calm and support ongoing security operations in the affected communities.
The command also warned Nigerians against spreading unverified information, stressing that fake reports could create panic and distract security agencies from ongoing rescue efforts.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm, support the ongoing efforts of the joint security team, and verify every piece of information before sharing it.
“The spread of fake news and misinformation only creates unnecessary panic, heightens tension, and diverts limited security resources that are critically needed for the ongoing operations,” the statement added.
Fear grows after school attack
The attack in Oriire Local Government Area has continued to trigger fear and outrage across the country after gunmen stormed schools and abducted pupils, teachers and residents.
One of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was later killed, further deepening concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of Oyo State.
The police assured residents that verified updates would be communicated as investigations and rescue operations continue.