The Oyo State Police Command has debunked reports claiming that one of the schoolchildren abducted during the attack on schools in Ahoro-Esienle, Oriire Local Government Area, has died in captivity.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, described the report as false, misleading, and deliberately designed to cause panic among residents.
According to the command, no security agency involved in the ongoing rescue operation has confirmed the death of any of the abducted pupils, stressing that the widely circulated claim has no factual basis.
The police accused those behind the report of spreading misinformation and attempting to manipulate public emotions through unverified and sensational claims.
The command warned that such reports could undermine ongoing rescue efforts, create unnecessary fear, and inflict additional trauma on the affected families who are already facing a difficult situation.
Olayinka stated that security agencies remain actively engaged in efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers, assuring the public that operations are being carried out professionally and with utmost confidentiality.
The police also cautioned bloggers, social media influencers, content creators, and media organisations against publishing or sharing unverified security-related information capable of causing public disorder.
The command urged journalists and online platforms to uphold professional standards by verifying sensitive information before publication, especially on matters affecting public safety and national security.
Residents were advised to ignore the report entirely and rely only on official updates from the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised government agencies.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the public informed of verified developments while continuing efforts to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted victims.
Source: Oyo State Police Command.
