Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Pierre Antoine
The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating online claiming that a pastor was arrested for allegedly supplying arms and ammunition to individuals suspected of involvement in the abduction of students and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of the state. The command described the report as false, misleading and without factual basis.
The clarification was issued on Saturday, June 27, 2026, by the Oyo State Police Command through its Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka. The command said the claim originated from a Facebook post and some online publications alleging that a pastor had been arrested as a gun runner for bandits involved in the Orire abduction case. The police stated that no such arrest had been made by the command or any other known security agency participating in the rescue operation.
The police said the report did not provide the name or address of the alleged pastor, describing the lack of specific details as another indication of the unreliability of the publication.
According to the command, the claim was being circulated at a time when security agencies were actively working to rescue victims abducted in the Orire area. Police officials said spreading unverified information could interfere with ongoing security operations.
The command stated that the publication appeared to be an attempt to distract security personnel involved in the rescue efforts and create confusion around the operation.
The police emphasised that their personnel and other security agencies involved in the response remained focused on securing the safe return of the abducted victims.
The incident relates to the ongoing security situation involving the abduction of students and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Authorities have been working to address the situation and ensure the victims are safely recovered.
The Oyo State Police Command said it remains committed to protecting residents and maintaining security across the state. Officials have urged members of the public to depend on verified sources for information concerning security matters.
The command warned that false reports during sensitive security operations can create unnecessary fear among residents and reduce public confidence in official efforts.
Police authorities said individuals and platforms involved in deliberately spreading misinformation capable of affecting security operations could face legal consequences.
The command explained that misinformation has the potential to complicate investigations because security agencies rely heavily on accurate information when responding to criminal incidents.
The statement also urged media organisations, online platforms and social media users to verify claims before publishing or sharing information related to ongoing security matters.
The police said official updates would continue to be provided through recognised communication channels, including statements from the Oyo State Police Command.
The command’s response comes amid increasing concerns over the spread of unverified information through social media platforms, especially during emergencies and security incidents.
Online platforms have become important sources of information for many Nigerians, but authorities have repeatedly warned that unconfirmed claims can create confusion.
The police said the rescue operation in Orire remains ongoing and that relevant security agencies are working together to address the situation.
The command did not provide additional details about the abduction case in its statement but maintained that efforts were being made to ensure the safe recovery of the victims.
The Oyo State Police Command has continued to encourage residents to support security agencies by providing useful information and avoiding the circulation of unverified claims.
Security agencies often depend on cooperation from local communities during rescue operations because residents can provide information that assists investigations.
The police urged members of the public who have information related to criminal activities to report through official channels rather than sharing unconfirmed reports.
The command provided emergency contact lines for residents seeking assistance or wishing to report security-related matters. The numbers include the Oyo State Call Response Center toll-free line and police control room contacts.
The police stated that it would continue using lawful measures to identify and investigate persons responsible for spreading harmful misinformation.
The statement signed by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining public safety and ensuring that security operations are not disrupted.
As investigations and rescue efforts continue, authorities have asked residents to remain calm and rely on confirmed updates.
The development highlights the growing challenge security agencies face in managing misinformation while responding to criminal incidents.
The Oyo State Police Command said it remains focused on its responsibility of protecting lives and property across the state while working to resolve the Orire abduction situation.
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