Police Speak On Inviting Traditional Ruler Over Kidnapped Oyo Pupils, Teachers

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports claiming that a traditional ruler in Oriire Local Government Area was invited for questioning over the abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in the area.

Naija News reports that the command described the reports as false, misleading and unfounded.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said that High Chief Tajudeen Abioye, the Elesinle of Esinle, had not been invited by the police.

“The Command wishes to categorically state that this report is false, unfounded and misleading. At no time was the said traditional ruler invited for questioning in relation to the ongoing investigation,” Ayanlade said.

The police alleged that the report was part of a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation and undermine rescue efforts.

“The Command views this publication as part of a deliberate campaign of misinformation and disinformation orchestrated by criminal elements aimed at creating division, generating unnecessary tension and undermining coordinated security efforts currently directed at securing the safe rescue of the abducted victims and bringing perpetrators to justice,” he stated.

Ayanlade urged residents to disregard the report and avoid sharing unverified information capable of jeopardising ongoing security operations.

“Members of the public are therefore advised to disregard the report in its entirety and refrain from sharing unverified information capable of jeopardising ongoing security operations,” he added.

The command said it remained committed to working with stakeholders and other security agencies to secure the safe release of the abducted victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.