Police Deny Conducting Raids, Arrests In Osun Communities
The Oyo State Police Command has firmly denied reports alleging that its operatives carried out raids and arrested traditional leaders in Papa, Ogburo, and Ejemu communities within Iwo Local Government Area of Osun State.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Adewale Osifeso, the police described the viral claims as baseless, mischievous, and a desperate attempt to incite unrest among peace-loving residents of the area.
The reports, widely circulated on social media platforms by a certain Emmanuel via The Standard News, had alleged that monarchs, Baales and chiefs were among those arrested by Oyo police officers on April 24.
Reacting sharply, CSP Osifeso stated that no officer from the Oyo State Command was involved in any such operation, nor was any traditional leader arrested on or before the said date.
“To set the record straight, the Oyo State Police Command categorically denies any involvement in raids or arrests in the mentioned area on the specified day,” the statement read.
The Command further revealed that the false narrative emerged barely hours after a peace meeting organised by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 11, AIG Fred Ekokotu, which was attended by Commissioners of Police from both Oyo and Osun States, CP Johnson Adenola and CP Umar Abba.
The meeting, according to the police, was aimed at finding lasting solutions to the lingering boundary crisis between the neighbouring communities.
CSP Osifeso condemned the spread of fake news, warning that the deliberate peddling of falsehood could undermine ongoing peace efforts.
“Responsible journalism is paramount, especially in today’s digital landscape where sponsored content can blur the lines of integrity. Individuals or groups found deliberately spreading false information for personal gain will face legal consequences,” he warned.
He urged the public to verify information through credible channels and resist the temptation to spread unverified claims capable of disturbing public peace.c peace.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
