By Seun Ibiyemi
The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating on social media alleging that armed bandits invaded communities in Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo and other parts of the state.
The Command described the viral claims as unfounded and designed to create fear, panic and anxiety among residents, assuring the public that there was no security crisis or coordinated attack in any part of Lagos State.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, stressing that security agencies had maintained effective surveillance and a strong security presence across communities in the state.
According to her, reports suggesting that bandits had attacked schools and communities in Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo and surrounding areas were entirely false.
“There is no security crisis, invasion or coordinated attack on any school or community in the affected areas or elsewhere in Lagos State,” she stated.
Adebisi reassured residents that schools across the state remain safe and that law enforcement agencies are actively monitoring the security situation to ensure the continued safety of lives and property.
However, she disclosed that the circulation of the false reports had already led to a tragic incident involving the death of a young commercial motorcyclist.
According to the police spokesperson, 24-year-old Kulaha Ayuba was allegedly mistaken for a bandit by a group of youths who acted on unverified information circulating within the community.
“The victim was attacked and fatally assaulted, while his motorcycle was reportedly stolen. His body was subsequently discovered in a swamp within the community,” Adebisi said.
She revealed that 15 suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing and are currently assisting investigators.
The Command assured residents that all individuals found culpable in the incident would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Condemning the spread of misinformation, Adebisi warned against the deliberate dissemination of false reports capable of inciting panic, public disorder, ethnic profiling and mob violence.
She noted that unverified information shared through social media platforms could have serious consequences, including loss of life and breakdown of law and order.
The police spokesperson urged residents to disregard the viral messages and avoid forwarding information that has not been verified through credible and official sources.
She further warned that individuals responsible for originating or intentionally spreading false and inflammatory information would be identified, investigated and prosecuted.
According to her, such actions pose a threat to public safety and could fuel unnecessary tension and violence within communities.
Adebisi also conveyed the message of the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fatai Tijani, who appealed to Lagos residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding.
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The Commissioner urged members of the public to continue their lawful activities without fear while cooperating with security agencies in maintaining peace and security across the state.
Residents were advised to promptly report suspicious activities through the nearest police station or established emergency channels rather than relying on unverified social media reports.
The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that adequate security measures remain in place to sustain peace, stability and public safety throughout the state.
