Ondo Govt., Police Command Douse Tension Over Security Scare

By Ayodele Oni

The Ondo State Government and Police Command have given update on the security situation in the State following a Wednesday early morning rush by parents and guardians to withdraw their children from school.

Report monitored in the State capital revealed that some parents rushed back to schools to pick their children following information that bandits have invaded Akure and combing schools.

A statement by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, stated that “Ondo State Government has become aware of false reports circulating on social media and messaging platforms alleging an incident of kidnapping in a school within Akure metropolis.

“The Government categorically states that there is no record, report, or incident of kidnapping in any primary, secondary, or tertiary institution in Akure. All schools in the state capital are safe, open, and conducting academic activities without disruption.

“Security agencies, including the Police, Amotekun Corps, and DSS, have verified all school environments in Akure and confirmed normalcy. 

“The Government, in collaboration with school authorities and parents, has maintained strict security protocols across all schools to ensure the safety of pupils and students at all times.

“We urge members of the public, especially parents and guardians, to disregard the fake news and refrain from sharing unverified information that is capable of causing panic and anxiety.

“The safety of our children and teachers remains a top priority for the Aiyedatiwa administration. We encourage anyone with genuine security concerns to report directly to the nearest police or Amotekun station/post.”

The Ondo State Police Command in its reaction, through a statement, dismissed the rumours urging residents to go about their normal duties.

Signed by the spokesman, Abayomi Jimoh, it reads: “The Command wishes to assure residents, particularly parents, students, school authorities and the general public, that there is no credible intelligence or reported incident indicating the presence or invasion of bandits in Akure. 

“Comprehensive security assessments and intelligence gathering efforts conducted by the Command have not revealed any threat that should warrant panic or disruption of normal activities.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, urges parents and guardians not to be alarmed by unverified information capable of creating unnecessary fear and anxiety. 

“Students are encouraged to continue their academic activities without apprehension, as adequate security measures have been put in place across the state to guarantee the safety of lives and property.

“The Command warns individuals against the deliberate spread of false information capable of causing public disorder, noting that anyone found responsible for disseminating misinformation intended to incite panic will be investigated and dealt with in accordance with the law.

“Residents are advised to remain vigilant and continue to cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activity through the nearest police station or established emergency channels.”