Command says viral claim is “malicious and unfounded,” urges public to rely on verified updates as rescue efforts continue

The Oyo State Police Command has firmly dismissed reports alleging that one of the schoolchildren abducted during a recent attack on three schools in Esinele (Ahoro-Esiele), Oriire Local Government Area, died in captivity.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Command’s spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, described the claim as false, malicious, and deliberately misleading. He accused those behind the report of attempting to incite panic and disrupt ongoing rescue operations.

According to the police, neither the Command nor any of the security agencies involved in the operation has confirmed the death of any of the abducted pupils.

“The report is entirely unfounded and should be disregarded,” the statement emphasized.

The Command warned that spreading unverified information, especially on sensitive security matters, could undermine rescue efforts, heighten fear among residents, and cause additional trauma to families of the victims. It also cautioned that such misinformation could embolden criminal elements.

The police therefore urged bloggers, media outlets, influencers, and content creators to exercise restraint, professionalism, and due diligence before publishing security-related reports.

Residents were advised to rely strictly on official updates from the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised agencies for accurate information.

Reaffirming its commitment, the Command assured the public that all efforts remain focused on ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted schoolchildren and maintaining security in the affected communities.