Police Arrest Man Over False Security Alert, Fake News In Ogun

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a man identified as Johnson Elleh for allegedly producing and circulating a misleading video that falsely claimed there were kidnapping and banditry activities along the Owode-Idiroko axis of Ogun State.

The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed this on Wednesday.

According to Babaseyi, the police immediately reviewed the viral video and launched an investigation to verify the claims being circulated.

He said the investigation revealed that the video was false, misleading, and intentionally created to spread fear, panic, and anxiety among members of the public.

Babaseyi stated:

“Extensive investigation and verification further established that there was no kidnapping or banditry incident as portrayed in the video within the Owode-Idiroko axis or its environs.

“Further investigation revealed that the suspect was featured in the video and was subsequently identified by detectives, leading to his arrest.

“Preliminary findings indicate that he deliberately fabricated and circulated the false narrative for attention and content creation purposes.”

The police spokesperson noted that the suspect’s actions had the potential to cause unnecessary public alarm, disrupt social order, and weaken public confidence in the state’s security system.

He added that the suspect would be charged to court once investigations are completed.

The Command also warned individuals and groups against spreading false security information, stressing that offenders would be prosecuted according to the law.

“The Command will continue to identify, arrest, investigate, and prosecute all persons found culpable, irrespective of status or motive.

“Residents are encouraged to remain calm, continue their lawful activities without fear, and rely solely on verified information disseminated through official channels,” Babaseyi added.