Police Debunk Viral Claim of Pastor’s Arrest Over Oyo Schoolchildren Abduction

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed as false a viral report circulating on social media and some online platforms claiming that a pastor was arrested for allegedly supplying arms and ammunition to bandits responsible for the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The command described the report as entirely false, misleading and without any factual basis, stressing that no such arrest has been made by the police or any of the security agencies involved in the ongoing rescue operation.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the report, which alleged that the unnamed cleric served as a gunrunner for the kidnappers, was fabricated.

According to him, the publication failed to identify the pastor or provide any verifiable details to support its claims.

"No such arrest has been made by the Police or any other known security agency involved in the ongoing rescue operation, and investigation is ongoing," Olayinka stated.

The police spokesperson said the command views the circulation of the false report as a deliberate attempt to divert attention from ongoing security operations aimed at rescuing the abducted pupils and their teachers.

He added that the misinformation also seeks to cast doubt on the professionalism and commitment of security personnel currently working to secure the victims' safe release.

"The Command views the publication as a deliberate attempt to distract security operatives from ongoing rescue efforts and to undermine public confidence in personnel working tirelessly to ensure the safe return of the victims," he said.

Olayinka urged members of the public to disregard the report and rely only on information released through the official communication channels of the Oyo State Police Command.

He also warned individuals and media platforms against spreading unverified information capable of jeopardising security operations or causing unnecessary public anxiety.

According to him, the command will invoke all lawful measures to identify, investigate and prosecute anyone found deliberately disseminating false information that could undermine ongoing investigations or public safety.

The police reaffirmed their commitment to securing the safe rescue of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers while maintaining peace and security across Oyo State.

"The Oyo State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted victims and maintaining public safety across the state," the statement added.