Oyo Police debunk viral claim linking Pastor to Orire kidnappers

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating on some media platforms, online publications, and social media alleging that a pastor was arrested for supplying arms and ammunition to those responsible for the abduction of students and teachers in Orire.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Command described the reports as entirely unfounded, clarifying that no pastor has been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation or rescue operation.

According to the Police, the viral Facebook post, which failed to identify the alleged pastor by name or address, also claimed that the cleric served as a gun runner for the abductors. The Command, however, stated that no such arrest has been made by the Police or any other security agency involved in the operation.

“The claim is false, misleading, and should be disregarded. Investigations and rescue efforts are ongoing,” the statement said.

The Police further expressed concern that the publication appeared to be a deliberate attempt to distract security personnel from the ongoing rescue mission while undermining public confidence in the professionalism and commitment of officers working to secure the victims’ release.

The Command urged residents to ignore the false reports and rely only on information disseminated through its verified communication channels.

It also warned individuals and media platforms against the deliberate spread of misinformation, stressing that anyone found responsible for publishing or circulating false information capable of jeopardizing security operations or misleading the public would be identified, investigated, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Oyo State Police Command assured residents that efforts remain focused on the safe rescue of the abducted victims and the maintenance of peace and security across the state.