By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Edo State Police Command has dismissed reports alleging that students of Green Park Academy in Aduwawa, Benin City, were kidnapped, describing the claim as false, misleading and deliberately designed to create panic among residents.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, the command said investigations showed that no kidnapping incident occurred at the school as widely circulated on social media.
The police said the report, allegedly spread by a woman popularly known as “Azawoman”, had generated unnecessary concern among members of the public.
“Following a thorough verification and preliminary investigation by the Command, it has been established that no kidnapping incident occurred at the school as alleged,” the statement said.
“Findings reveal that the report is entirely false, lacks any factual basis, and was deliberately disseminated to misinform the public and create unwarranted panic within the State.”
The command condemned the circulation of unverified information, warning that the spread of false security reports could undermine public confidence and distract security agencies from genuine threats.
“The Command strongly condemns the reckless spread of false information capable of undermining public confidence, causing fear among residents, and diverting attention from genuine security concerns,” the statement added.
According to the police, steps have already been initiated to identify and apprehend the individual responsible for originating the report.
“Consequently, the Command has commenced steps to apprehend the originator of the false report for questioning and possible prosecution in accordance with extant laws.”
The police urged residents to verify information through credible and official channels before sharing it on social media.
“The public is further encouraged to report security-related concerns through appropriate channels to enable prompt verification and response by law enforcement agencies,” the statement noted.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, reassured residents that the security situation across the state remains under control.
“CP Monday Agbonika reassures residents that the security situation in the State remains under control and that the Command is committed to safeguarding lives and property,” the statement said.
The police chief also thanked law-abiding citizens for their cooperation and called for continued public support in maintaining peace, security and public order across Edo State.
