Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Ondo State Police Command has launched an investigation into a false kidnapping allegation that led to the brutal assault of a commercial motorcyclist by a mob in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area, arresting the woman who made the claim and warning residents against the dangers of misinformation and jungle justice. The incident occurred on Wednesday, June 4, 2026.
According to a press release issued on Saturday, June 6, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, one Miss Abigael Bright allegedly accused a commercial motorcyclist, Mr. Rasheed Awojobi of Idi Mango Street, Ore, of attempting to kidnap her while transporting her on his motorcycle from Ogo Oluwa Street to the Idi Mango area of the town. The allegation spread rapidly within the community, drawing the attention of passers‑by and residents, some of whom attacked the motorcyclist before police operatives arrived at the scene and brought the situation under control. The victim sustained visible injuries to his face and other parts of his body during the attack.
Findings from preliminary investigations indicate that the kidnapping allegation was unfounded. Police also discovered that the suspect allegedly circulated the claim through her WhatsApp status, further fueling public anxiety and spreading false information within the community. The suspect is presently in police custody and is cooperating with investigators as inquiries continue. The victim was promptly rescued and given necessary medical attention. Upon conclusion of the investigation, the command will take appropriate legal measures in line with extant laws.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Felix Ohagwu, expressed deep concern over the increasing rate of false reports and the indiscriminate sharing of unverified information capable of causing panic and disrupting public peace. The Commissioner noted that false allegations, especially those bordering on kidnapping and other serious offences, have the potential to trigger violent reactions, endanger innocent citizens, and undermine public confidence in lawful processes.
CP Ohagwu condemned the mob attack carried out against the motorcyclist, emphasizing that no person should be subjected to punishment based on mere suspicion or allegation. He reiterated that jungle justice is a criminal act that frequently results in the violation of human rights, miscarriage of justice, and avoidable loss of lives. He urged residents to channel all complaints and suspicions through the appropriate law enforcement agencies rather than taking matters into their own hands. The Commissioner further warned that individuals who engage in mob action or deliberately spread false information capable of inciting public disorder will face the full weight of the law.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the command's commitment to the policing vision of the Inspector‑General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, which emphasizes professionalism, intelligence‑driven policing, community partnership, and the protection of fundamental human rights. Members of the public are advised to exercise restraint, verify information before disseminating it, particularly on social media platforms, and promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station for proper investigation and necessary action.
The incident in Ore is the latest in a string of false kidnapping alarms across Nigeria that have triggered mob violence. In May 2026, a similar false claim in Lagos led to the lynching of a ride‑hailing driver. The Ondo State Police Command has reiterated its resolve to uphold law and order, safeguard innocent lives, and ensure that justice prevails. As of Sunday morning, June 7, no court date had been announced for the suspect, and the victim is recovering from his injuries.
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