Ondo Police Command Moves Against Fake News

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Police Command has upbraided residents of the State on the evils of peddling fake News ahead of the November Governorship Election.

The Command pointed out that unsubstantiated report is capable of disrupting the peace of the state as it could lead to negative reactions from the people.

Reacting to series of fake News now circulating in the state, the Command’s spokesperson,

Funmilayo Odunlami, stated that videos of old event are being circulated as if they are recent happenings.

The Command’s statement reads “The Ondo State Police Command is issuing a critical warning regarding the alarming rise of false information circulating on social media, particularly as we approach the Gubernatorial Election.

“The Command has observed a troubling trend of old videos and misleading content being shared with the intent to incite unrest within the community.

“Recently, a video depicting flooding in Ore from August 2013 was irresponsibly circulated by individuals whose motives remain unclear.

“Such actions are not only misleading, but pose significant risks, especially during this crucial electoral period, as the spread of misinformation can undermine public trust, incite violence, jeopardize public safety, and threaten the integrity of our democracy.

“It will ultimately deprive the people of a level playing field for the exercise of their civic rights and responsibilities.

“In a similar event, a story alleging the amputation of fingers from a corpse at a mortuary in Ajowa-Akoko was found to be false, as confirmed by the Divisional Police Officer who visited the morgue.

“The Police Command emphasizes the importance of verifying information before sharing or reposting, as constructive engagement is essential for fostering a peaceful environment during this pivotal time in the history of the State.

“The good people of Ondo State are urged to remain critical of the information they encounter, stay vigilant, and distance themselves from those who seek to exploit the current situation for personal gain. Instead, they should practice responsible sharing and fact-checking.

“Finally, while assuring the citizens of the Force’s readiness, in collaboration with sister security and safety agencies, to ensure free, fair, and safe elections, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abayomi Oladipo Peter, wishes to state that the Command under his watch will not stand idly by while agents of calumny operate.

“He stresses that the Command will not hesitate to respond appropriately and within the law to any kinetic or non-kinetic threats to the peace of the elections.”