The Oyo State Police Command has disowned a widely circulated publication claiming to reveal operational details of the ongoing investigation into the abduction of students and staff in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, describing the report as false, speculative and potentially harmful to security operations.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the publication, which purportedly disclosed the identities of suspects, intercepted communications and financial transaction records linked to the case, did not emanate from the police or any authorized security agency.
According to the police, the report contained several unverified claims and technical assertions that had neither been issued nor endorsed by authorities handling the investigation.
“The Command wishes to categorically state that the said publication is misleading, speculative and not an official security report,” Ayanlade said.
He noted that investigations into the abduction remain active and are being driven by intelligence-gathering efforts, making it necessary to shield sensitive information from public disclosure.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the investigation into the unfortunate incident remains active, sensitive and intelligence-driven,” he stated.
Ayanlade explained that details relating to suspects, investigative leads, operational strategies and financial intelligence are classified to prevent compromising ongoing efforts and to ensure the successful arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
“As is standard practice in matters of this nature, operational details, identities of suspects, investigative leads and financial intelligence components are strictly protected to safeguard ongoing efforts, prevent compromise of field operations and ensure successful apprehension of all perpetrators,” he added.
The police spokesperson cautioned bloggers, online publishers and members of the public against disseminating unverified information, warning that such reports could mislead residents, generate unnecessary anxiety and undermine security operations.
“The Command therefore cautions members of the public, bloggers and online publishers against the dissemination of unverified, exaggerated or operationally sensitive information capable of misleading the public, causing panic or undermining active security operations,” he said.
He further warned that anyone found deliberately spreading false information or obstructing the investigation could face legal consequences.
“The Oyo State Police Command will not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law against any individual or group found deliberately circulating false information, interfering with investigations or attempting to obstruct ongoing security operations,” Ayanlade stated.
The Command urged residents to rely only on information released through official channels regarding the abduction case and other security developments in the state.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all those involved in the crime are identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“The Command reassures residents of its unwavering commitment to ensuring that all those involved in the crime are identified, arrested and brought to justice in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
