By Adesakin Adefemi
The Lagos State Police Command has debunked viral social media reports claiming that Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo, and other areas are under invasion by armed bandits targeting schools and children. The Command described the posts as deliberately designed to spread fear and panic among residents.
According to a statement released on Monday by the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, there is currently no security crisis, invasion, or coordinated attack on any school or community in the areas mentioned. The police assured Lagosians that security agencies continue to maintain adequate presence and surveillance across all communities.
The Command said schools across Lagos remain safe and urged residents to disregard the unverified alerts circulating online. Authorities emphasized that security operatives are actively monitoring all parts of the state to prevent any breach of public safety.
Police revealed that the false alarm has already led to a tragic and avoidable death. A 24-year-old commercial motorcyclist, Kulaha Ayuba, was killed after some youths falsely profiled him as a “Fulani bandit” based on the viral rumours.
The statement explained that the youths, acting on the belief that armed bandits had invaded their area, attacked and fatally assaulted Ayuba. His motorcycle was reportedly stolen and his body was later found in a swamp within the community.
Fifteen suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing and are currently under investigation. The Command assured the public that all those found culpable will face the full weight of the law.
The police also warned that individuals who originate, publish, or deliberately circulate false and inciting information will be investigated and prosecuted. The Command said such actions can cause public alarm, disorder, ethnic tension, and violence.
Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding. He advised the public to report any suspicious activity through the nearest police station or established emergency channels instead of relying on unverified social media content.
Local government officials have also moved to calm nerves. The Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LGA, Abdullahi Olowa, issued a security advisory urging residents to avoid ethnic profiling or taking the law into their own hands.
The Imota LCDA further reassured residents that the community remains peaceful following a viral video and radio broadcast alleging a bandit attack on a primary school.
