Govt debunks viral reports of bandits seizing Ogbomoso - Iseyin road, assures on safe return of abducted victims

Govt debunks viral reports of bandits seizing Ogbomoso – Iseyin road, assures on safe return of abducted victims

Yinka ADETUNJI

The Oyo state government has described as false a viral report Saturday that bandits have taken over the Ogbomoso – Iseyin road (Adebayo Alao-Akala Memorial Highway) and warning travellers to avoid the road.

The report created panic against the backdrop of killing and kidnapping of teachers and students at Ahoro-Esinele in the axis last Friday.

This is it assures teachers and students abducted by the bandits would be safely rescued.

The Office of the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Security Matters, reacting to the report of banditry on the Akala Highway in a release it issued described the report as false.

“The attention of the Office of the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Security Matters has been drawn to misleading reports circulating on social media alleging the presence of suspected gunmen or bandits along the Iseyin Ogbomoso axis, particularly around the Adebayo Alao Akala Highway.

“The public is hereby informed that the information is false and should be disregarded.’

It admitted there were convoys of vehicles on the road but explained it was those of heads of security agencies going on on-spot assessment at the scene of banditry.

“The convoy erroneously reported as armed bandits comprised security operatives led by the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, alongside the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Mr. Abayomi Fagbenro-Bibire, on an official security visit to Yawota and Elesinle communities in company with the Inspector General of Police.”

It adds, “The visit formed part of ongoing coordinated security interventions and engagements with affected communities following recent disturbing developments within the area.”

Assuring on security of lives and property , the government stressed, “Security assurances have been given to residents that rescue efforts remain active and that security agencies are committed to ensuring the safe return of victims while sustaining operations designed to restore stability.”

The Office also counselled against spread of unfounded reports. “Residents are advised to avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic, fear, or disorder within communities.

“Members of the public are encouraged to rely on verified updates from relevant authorities and continue supporting security agencies with credible information.

“The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, remains committed to protecting lives and property and sustaining peace across the State.”