The Kwara State Government has dismissed reports claiming nine LGAs are under bandit siege, describing them as false, politically motivated, and designed to cause public panic
Kwara Govt Slams Fake Report Claiming Nine LGAs Under Bandit Siege, Faults Peter Obi’s Involvement
The Kwara State Government has strongly refuted claims circulating on social media alleging that nine local government areas of the state are currently under siege by bandits, describing the report as false, mischievous, and dangerous to public peace.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Commissioner for Communications, Mrs. Bolanle Olukoju, urged residents to disregard the claim, stressing that no part of Kwara State has been 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,” Olukoju stated.
She explained that while the state had witnessed isolated security challenges, the situation had been effectively managed under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
Olukoju described the viral reports as the handiwork of political mischief-makers seeking to instill fear and destabilize the state.
“It is wicked and irresponsible for anyone to exaggerate the situation or circulate unverified claims that could cause fear among the populace,” she said.
“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 further expressed disappointment over the involvement of former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, who reportedly shared the misinformation on his social media handles.
“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 said.
She appealed to members of the public to verify information before sharing, warning that false alarms could create unnecessary panic and hinder the efforts of security agencies.
“This irresponsible behaviour is making things harder for the security forces who already have enough on their plates,” she added.
The Kwara government reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state, assuring residents that law enforcement agencies remain fully in control of the situation. Read More
