Society
Kwara Govt Denies Claim of Bandits Overrunning 9 LG, Faults Obi
“wicked and irresponsible” for anyone to exaggerate the situation
The Kwara State Government has debunked reports suggesting that nine local government areas of the state are under siege by bandits, describing the claims as false, mischievous, and capable of inciting unnecessary panic among residents.
Commissioner for Communications, Mrs. Bolanle Olukoju, in a statement on Monday, said there was no truth to the allegation, stressing that no part of the state was overrun by criminal elements.
“We wish to alert the public to some reckless claims that nine local government areas of Kwara State are under siege by bandits. This is totally false. No local government area is under siege in the state,” she said.
Olukoju explained that while the state under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq had recorded isolated security challenges in a few areas, it was “wicked and irresponsible” for anyone to exaggerate the situation or circulate unverified claims that could cause fear among the populace.
According to her, “We have reasonable grounds to suspect that some opposition elements, both within and outside the state, are behind this false narrative. These online promoters are the equivalents of bandits, as they seek to instill fear through fake news such as the unfounded claim of nine LGAs being under siege or reports of gunmen movement in parts of Asa LGA.”
The commissioner also expressed disappointment that former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, had amplified the misinformation through his social media handles, describing it as unbecoming of a statesman.
“We regretfully observe that Mr. Peter Obi has lent his social media handles to spreading such fake news. This is not expected from him as a statesman. We request that he bring down the post as it is totally false and inappropriate,” Olukoju stated.
She urged members of the public to desist from sharing unverified information that could create panic, confusion, or psychological distress among citizens, adding that such acts only make the work of security agencies more difficult.
“This irresponsible behaviour is making things harder for the security forces who already have enough on their plates,” she added.
