The Ekiti State Police Command has dismissed reports of alleged bandit attacks on schools in parts of the state, describing the claims as false alarms capable of causing panic and disrupting public peace.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, expressed concern over the growing spread of fake security alerts by unidentified persons across several communities in the state.
The Command said the rumours affected schools in Ilawe-Ekiti, Ifaki-Ekiti, Oye-Ekiti, Omuo-Ekiti, Odo-Ado area of Ado-Ekiti, Otun, Efon, Igbemo-Ekiti and Ayetoro/Iloro High School, among others.
According to the police, the false reports created panic among students, pupils and residents, forcing some schools to shut down temporarily as learners fled over fears of attacks.
“The Command has noticed a disturbing trend currently happening in the state where false alarms are being raised by yet-to-be-identified persons that bandits are attacking or planning to attack schools,” the statement said.
The police assured residents that adequate security measures are in place across the state and urged members of the public to remain vigilant while reporting suspicious movements to security agencies instead of spreading unverified information.
The Command also warned that spreading fake news and false security alerts is a criminal offence under Sections 24 and 59 of the Cybercrimes Act 2024 (as amended) and the Criminal Code, adding that offenders would be prosecuted.
Residents were advised to disregard the rumours, verify information before sharing, and continue their lawful activities without fear while remaining security conscious.
The police further urged the public to contact the Command through its emergency line, 08062355977, for urgent security intervention.
