The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed viral social media reports claiming that armed bandits have invaded communities such as Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo, and other parts of Lagos State, targeting schools and children.
In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the police described the allegations and accompanying graphic content circulating online as “false, misleading, unfounded, and intended to create unnecessary fear, panic, and apprehension among residents.”
According to the statement, there is no security crisis, invasion, or coordinated attack on any school or community in Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo, or any other part of the state.
“There is currently no security crisis, invasion, or coordinated attack on any school or community in Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo, or any other part of Lagos State. The Command wishes to reassure members of the public that schools across the state remain safe, while the Police and other security agencies continue to maintain adequate security presence and surveillance in all communities,” Adebisi stated.
The spokesperson, however, revealed that the false alarm led to a tragic incident involving a 24-year-old motorcyclist, identified as Kulaha Ayuba. According to the police, some youths in the community accused Ayuba of being a bandit, attacked him, and inflicted fatal injuries on him. His motorcycle was reportedly stolen, while his body was abandoned in a swamp.
Adebisi disclosed that following swift police intervention, 15 suspects were arrested in connection with the incident and are currently under investigation. She assured the public that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
The Command also condemned the deliberate spread of unverified information capable of causing public panic, inciting disorder, and promoting ethnic profiling or mob justice.
“The Command condemns the deliberate dissemination of unverified information capable of causing chaos, inciting public disorder, and promoting ethnic profiling, mob action, or hatred against any group of people. Residents are advised to disregard such posts and refrain from sharing materials whose authenticity has not been verified through official channels,” the statement said.
The police further warned that individuals responsible for originating, publishing, or deliberately circulating false and inflammatory information capable of triggering public alarm, ethnic tension, violence, or disorder would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and security across Lagos State and urged residents to rely only on verified information from official sources.
