The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a man identified as Johnson Elleh for allegedly producing and circulating a false video claiming that kidnappings and banditry activities were taking place along the Owode-Idiroko corridor of the state.
The Command said the arrest followed a thorough investigation launched after the video went viral on social media, sparking concerns among residents and commuters in the area.
According to the police, the video alleged widespread insecurity along the Owode-Idiroko axis, but investigations revealed that the claims were entirely fabricated and designed to create fear and panic among members of the public.
In a statement issued by the Command, authorities disclosed that detectives immediately scrutinised the contents of the video and carried out extensive verification exercises to determine the authenticity of the claims.
The police said their findings established that there had been no kidnapping or banditry incident as portrayed in the video, either along the Owode-Idiroko road or in surrounding communities.
Investigators subsequently identified Johnson Elleh, who appeared in the video, and traced him for questioning before effecting his arrest.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect deliberately created and circulated the content for attention and online engagement purposes. The Command noted that the false narrative had the potential to trigger unnecessary public alarm, disrupt social order and undermine confidence in the state’s security framework.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to intentionally producing and sharing the misleading content to generate reactions on social media platforms.
The police said investigations are ongoing and that the suspect would be charged in court upon completion of the process.
Reacting to the development, the Ogun State Police Command strongly condemned the spread of fake news and unverified security reports, warning that such actions pose serious threats to public peace and safety.
The Command stressed that individuals or groups involved in creating, publishing or recirculating false security information would face legal consequences, regardless of their motives or status.
“The Command hereby issues a stern warning to individuals and groups engaged in the creation, publication, recirculation, or dissemination of unverified security-related information that such acts constitute a threat to public peace and security and will attract the full weight of the law,” the statement said.
Police authorities further assured residents that Ogun State remains peaceful and secure despite attempts to create panic through misinformation.
“The Command acknowledges the concerns of residents who may have been alarmed by the misleading video and wishes to reassure the public that Ogun State remains safe, peaceful, and secure,” the statement added.
The police urged members of the public to remain calm, continue their lawful activities without fear and rely only on information released through official and verified channels.
The Command also reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, pledging to continue identifying, investigating and prosecuting individuals responsible for spreading false information capable of threatening public order.
