The Oyo State Police Command has refuted reports of alleged raids and arrests of persons in Papa, Ogburo, and Ejemu communities within Iwo Local Government Area, Osun State, on April 24, describing them as baseless, without merit, and a calculated effort to incite unrest through the dissemination of unverified and sensationalised reports.
Among those claimed to have been arrested were monarchs, traditional leaders (Baales), and chiefs.
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In a statement issued by its spokesman, CSP Adewale Osifeso, the Command said the reports were made by one Emmanuel and circulated on social media via The Standard News.
The PPRO noted that what was particularly troubling was that the author made such claims shortly after a peace meeting convened by Assistant Inspector-General of Police Fred Ekokotu, who is in charge of Zone 11, and attended by CP Johnson Adenola and CP Umar Abba of the Oyo and Osun State Commands, respectively.
He added that the meeting focused on resolving the age-long crisis between the neighbouring communities.
CSP Osifeso stated:
“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.
“No policeman from the Oyo Command visited or carried out operations in the area, and no Oba or Baale was arrested by our operatives on or before that day.
“The narrative is unequivocally a fabrication, likely concocted by the writer to serve the interests of those promoting unrest in the region.
“Responsible journalism is paramount, especially in today’s digital landscape where sponsored content can blur the lines of integrity.
“The Oyo State Police Command urges the public to exercise caution and verify information before sharing it, to prevent panic and maintain public order.
“Relying on credible sources is crucial in building trust and ensuring safety.
“We warn that individuals or groups found deliberately spreading false information for personal gain will face legal consequences.”
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