The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging the infiltration of suspected terrorists into parts of Ogbomoso and the Old Oyo National Park axis.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, described the claims as false, misleading and lacking any factual basis.
The reaction followed the circulation of a video and voice note alleging that suspected Lukarawa terrorists had moved into forests surrounding Ogbomoso and nearby communities.
According to the Command, intelligence assessments and security reports available to the police do not indicate the presence or movement of any terrorist group within the affected areas.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to address and clarify a video and accompanying voice note currently circulating across various social media platforms, alleging the movement and infiltration of suspected Lukarawa terrorists into forests around Ogbomoso and the Old Oyo National Park,” the statement said.
“The Command unequivocally rejects and dismisses the claims contained in the said video and voice note as false, misleading, and entirely without factual basis.”
Despite dismissing the reports, the police said proactive security measures had been intensified across the axis to reinforce safety and public confidence.
The Command disclosed that intelligence and covert operatives had been deployed to border communities and other vulnerable areas to strengthen surveillance and early warning mechanisms.
It added that security operatives are collaborating with traditional rulers, local vigilante groups, hunters and community intelligence networks to improve information gathering and ensure swift responses to any security threat.
The police also revealed that visibility policing, patrol operations, intelligence-led stop-and-search activities and strategic deployments had been expanded across Ogbomoso and adjoining communities.
According to the Command, the measures are aimed at deterring criminal activities while sustaining peace and security in the state.
Residents, particularly those in rural and border communities, were urged to remain alert and report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies through official channels.
The Command further expressed concern over what it described as the growing spread of fake news and unverified security alerts on social media.
It warned that such reports could trigger panic, create fear among residents, disrupt economic activities and divert security attention from genuine threats.
“The dissemination of false security information is not only irresponsible and unethical but also constitutes a criminal offence punishable under extant laws,” the statement added.
The police warned individuals spreading false information that could cause public alarm to desist immediately, stressing that offenders would be identified, investigated, and prosecuted in line with the law.
Reassuring residents, the Command maintained that there is currently no credible intelligence suggesting the presence of the alleged terrorist group anywhere in Oyo State.
Citizens were therefore advised to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear while relying only on verified information from recognised security agencies.
The police also urged the public to disregard the viral video and voice note entirely, emphasising that sustained cooperation between residents and security agencies remains essential to maintaining peace and security across the state.
