The Oyo State Police Command has intensified security operations across major highways in the state and issued a stern warning against the spread of false kidnapping claims, particularly those linked to the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
In a statement signed on November 17, 2025, by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Osifeso Adewale, the Command described circulating videos and reports alleging abductions in the Onigari axis of the expressway as “incorrect, outdated, and maliciously spread to create panic.”
According to the Command, the misleading clips, widely shared on social media in recent days have contributed to unnecessary fear among residents and travelers, despite having no connection to current realities on the ground.
To reassure the public, the Oyo State Police Command, working jointly with its Ogun State counterpart and the Ogun–Oyo Joint Security Committee, has deployed additional personnel to highways and border communities.
The enhanced operations include; Increased visibility policing on expressways, intelligence-led stop-and-search activities, strengthened patrols around major entry and exit points, tight monitoring of border settlements
These measures, the statement noted, are designed to safeguard residents and travelers, especially during periods of high vehicular movement.
The Command also highlighted the safe and hitch-free movement recorded during recent high-profile events in Oyo State, including a mega music concert and a national convention that attracted large crowds from across the country.
Despite these successes, the police expressed concern over the deliberate circulation of old kidnapping footage being passed off as new incidents.
“The ongoing dissemination of outdated and misleading video content appears to be an effort to incite unrest and anxiety,” CSP Adewale stated, warning that the Command would not hesitate to prosecute anyone found guilty of spreading information capable of causing public disorder.
The police appealed to residents to avoid sharing unverified claims, stressing the importance of responsible information circulation in maintaining public safety.
“We advise everyone to be cautious and to avoid sharing unverified information. Responsible sharing of news is crucial for building a safe community,” the statement read.
Citizens were reminded to report suspicious activities and emergencies through the following channels:
Oyo State Call Response Center (Toll-Free): 615
Police Command Control Room: 08081768614, 07055495413
The Command reiterated its commitment to keeping the state secure and encouraged cooperation from the public.
