By Adesakin Adefemi
The Ekiti State Police Command has debunked a report circulating on social media claiming that a full bus of passengers was kidnapped along the Aramoko-Ekiti road on May 31, 2026. The Command described the information as false and mischievous.
According to a press release signed by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abutu Sunday, the Command deployed intelligence and tactical operatives to the axis upon receiving the distress information. The operatives were tasked with confirming the authenticity of the report and taking necessary action if true.
Investigations revealed that no such incident occurred within the state. The Command said the alarm was created and spread by criminally minded individuals to cause unnecessary panic and discredit the efforts of security agencies and government in ensuring public safety.
The police stated that it has noticed an intentional and coordinated plan by some individuals to create and spread false alarms about bandit attacks and kidnappings in Ekiti. The Command noted that the state has recorded numerous fake news and false alarms in the past few weeks.
“The Command, while calling on everyone to disregard the information as there is nowhere within the State that such incident occurred, warns against creating and spreading of false information, as it is a criminal offence and those found wanting will be dealt with in accordance with the provisions of the law,” the release stated.
SP Sunday urged members of the public to verify news sources before sharing information on social media. He said the spread of false information can cause panic, disrupt public order, and undermine confidence in security operations.
The Command called on citizens who have information about fake news peddlers to contact the police. It provided phone numbers 08062335577 and 09064050086, as well as Facebook handles Nigeria Police Force Ekiti State Command and PPRO Ekiti for reporting.
Ekiti residents were also implored to remain security conscious, law-abiding, and to go about their lawful activities without fear. The police reassured the public of its commitment to maintaining safety across the state.
Members of the public were advised to promptly call 08062335577 in case of any emergency. The Command emphasized that combating misinformation is a shared responsibility between security agencies and the public.
