ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Oyo State Government has warned residents against the circulation of unverified security information, stressing that misinformation could trigger panic and undermine ongoing rescue operations.
The government said false reports have the potential to mislead security efforts and weaken public confidence at a time when security agencies are intensifying operations to rescue victims of the recent terrorist attack in Ogbomoso.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Special Adviser on Security, Abayomi Fagbenro, who urged residents to confirm security-related information before sharing it.
Fagbenro also warned against the dangerous practice of ignoring or failing to report genuine threats, noting that such false negatives could delay swift intervention by security agencies.
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“The Office of the Special Adviser on Security wishes to draw the attention of the public to the need for responsible reporting of security-related concerns in line with the principle that citizens should see something and say something.
“Members of the public are urged to ensure that any information they communicate is accurate and verified, to avoid misinformation that may affect ongoing security operations and the confidence of the people.
“The public is also informed about the danger of false negatives, where actual threats or suspicious activities are ignored or not reported, which can slow down timely response from security agencies.
“Citizens are therefore advised to remain alert, observe carefully, and report only what they know or have reasonably confirmed to the appropriate authorities so as to prevent avoidable security incidents. Security is a collective responsibility, and every credible information provided to the relevant authorities helps to strengthen safety and peace in our communities,” Fagbenro said.
The warning follows a false rumour circulated on Tuesday claiming that bandits had launched another attack on Ladoke Akinola University of Technology and that the institution had been shut down.
Tension has remained high in the area following last Friday’s terrorist attack, during which gunmen invaded three schools on the outskirts of Ogbomoso and killed two teachers.
One of the teachers was reportedly shot during the attack and later died, while another abducted teacher was allegedly beheaded by the kidnappers.
Seven students, 18 children, and six teachers are still being held captive, with security operatives intensifying efforts to secure their release.