The Oyo State Police Command has described as false and misleading a report on the social media that it effected the arrest of some traditional rulers in Osun State.
It stated this in a press release, AZ:5250/OY/PPRO/VOL.6/291, dated 26 April, 2025 and signed by the PPRO, CSP Osifeso Adewale, for the Commissioner Of Police.
The release was titled “Oyo State Police Command Responds To False Reports Regarding Raid And Arrests In Local Communities.”
It refuted the report that the Command raided and arrested some persons, including obas, baales, and chiefs, in Papa, Ogburo, and Ejemu communities within Iwo Local Government Area of Osun State on 24 April, 2025.
“These claims are completely baseless and without merit. They appear to be a calculated effort to incite unrest through the dissemination of unverified and sensationalised reports.
“It is especially troubling that the author would make such claims shortly after a peace meeting convened by AIG Fred E. Ekokotu, Zonal Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Osogbo.
“The peace meeting was attended by CP Johnson Adenola, psc and CP Umar Abba, Commissioners of Police, Oyo and Osun states, respectively, where deliberations aimed essentially on resolving the agelong crisis between the neighbouring communities.
“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 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 to be deliberately spreading false information for personal gain will face legal consequences,” it was stated in the release.
The Command urged members of the public to report any suspicious activities, adding “together, we can maintain the safety and security of our community.”