The Ogun State Government, alongside the State Police Command, has strongly refuted a wave of alarming reports circulating across social media that suggested an imminent terrorist invasion of the state. The widely shared claims, which referenced Boko Haram insurgents, armed bandits, and violent herdsmen, triggered anxiety in several communities before authorities intervened with clarifications.
In carefully coordinated statements, both the government and security agencies described the reports as entirely false, misleading, and deliberately spread to incite fear among residents. They emphasized that there is no verified intelligence indicating any planned attack within Ogun State and encouraged citizens to remain calm and continue their daily routines without disruption.
The false alarm appears to have been fueled by a mix of fabricated messages, recycled media content, and misinterpretation of legitimate security actions. Over a period of about 48 hours, audio recordings and written messages gained traction online, alleging that armed groups had already begun attacks in areas such as Sango Ota and Ifo. Some of the messages even mentioned specific schools, including Oluke Community High School and Sango Ota High School, claiming they were under threat or had already been attacked.
However, thorough investigations carried out by security operatives found no evidence to support any of these claims. The reports were confirmed to be baseless, with no incidents recorded in the locations mentioned.
The situation was further complicated by the circulation of an old video originally recorded in 2024, which showed the arrest of suspected kidnappers in Ijebu Igbo. The footage was reposted with misleading captions that presented it as a recent event, thereby reinforcing the false narrative that a security breach had just occurred within the state.
Read more on: Fresh Violence in Taraba Leaves Many Dead and Hundreds Fleeing Homes
Public concern intensified when news broke of the arrest of 38 foreign nationals in Kajola Ilese, located within the Atan Ota axis. The individuals, identified as citizens of Côte d’Ivoire and made up of 19 males and 19 females between the ages of 25 and 35, were quickly and inaccurately linked to terrorist activities by some social media users. This misrepresentation played a significant role in amplifying fear and confusion among residents.
Reacting on behalf of Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, provided a clear and firm response. He stated that comprehensive intelligence assessments conducted by relevant security agencies at both the state and federal levels revealed no sign of any impending attack.
He reassured the public that security personnel across Ogun State remain vigilant and fully prepared to respond to any genuine threat. According to him, adequate measures are already in place to safeguard lives and property, and there is no cause for alarm. He also expressed concern about how misinformation continues to exploit existing fears, particularly in light of recent security challenges reported in other parts of the South West region.
The Ogun State Police Command also moved swiftly to address the situation through direct action. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Oluseyi Babaseyi, officers were deployed to all areas mentioned in the viral reports for on the spot verification.
Communities such as Oluke, Ijoko, Fadunsin, Atan Ota, Sango Ota, and Agbado were visited by security teams, who confirmed that there were no signs of attacks or disturbances. Schools identified in the circulating messages were also inspected by the Police School Protection Squad. Their findings showed that all the institutions were operating normally, with students and staff going about their activities without any disruption.
Read more on: Troops Kill Over 50 Terrorists, Eliminate Top ISWAP Shura Council Member
Addressing the issue of the arrested foreign nationals, the police clarified that the individuals were detained strictly for immigration related offences. Investigations revealed that they had entered the country without valid documentation. Authorities emphasized that there was no connection between the individuals and any terrorist or criminal network, dismissing the claims linking them to insurgent activity as completely unfounded.
While dispelling the rumors, the state government also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen security across Ogun State. Governor Dapo Abiodun has continued to engage with community leaders, religious figures, and security stakeholders to ensure a coordinated approach to maintaining peace.
During a recent meeting with members of the League of Imams and Alfas at his residence in Iperu, the governor outlined a comprehensive security initiative aimed at protecting schools and communities from potential threats. The strategy involves collaboration between formal security agencies and local security outfits such as the Amotekun Corps, the So Safe Corps, and registered hunters and vigilante groups.
These groups are expected to work together to enhance surveillance, improve response times, and maintain a visible security presence across all parts of the state. To ensure the sustainability of the initiative, the government has approved monthly stipends for personnel involved in joint patrol operations, particularly around schools and other sensitive locations.
Read more on: Cholera Outbreak Hits Borno, 39 Dead and Thousands Infected
In addition, efforts are being made at the regional level to strengthen cooperation among South West states. Governors in the region have intensified discussions aimed at improving coordination among security networks, especially in border areas where criminal elements may attempt to exploit gaps between jurisdictions.
Authorities have also taken the opportunity to remind residents of the importance of verifying information before sharing it. The rapid spread of unverified claims, especially through social media platforms, can lead to unnecessary panic and disrupt normal life.
Residents are encouraged to rely on official communication channels and emergency lines to confirm any security concerns. The Ogun State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring the public that it remains fully prepared to respond swiftly to any real threat.
As normalcy continues across Ogun State, both the government and security agencies have urged citizens to remain vigilant but not fearful. The situation, they insist, is under control, and there is no indication of any impending security breach.
Read more on:
