The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports of a suspected bandit attack in Ogbomoso and neighbouring communities, describing the claims as false alarms fueled by panic and misinformation.
According to the police, fear spread across parts of Ogbomoso and Ajaawa Town on Monday after rumours circulated that armed bandits had invaded the vicinity of Are-Ago High School. The development triggered panic among residents, students, and nearby communities.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the command said surveillance and patrol teams were immediately deployed to the area to verify the situation and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Preliminary investigations later revealed that the incident stemmed from suspicion surrounding unfamiliar individuals seen behind the school fence. The school principal, Mrs. Akanbi Ruth, reportedly explained that some students raised alarm after noticing the visitors near the premises.
Police investigations discovered that the individuals involved included an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) attached to the Kwara State Command and two civilians travelling in a Toyota Venza SUV. The visitors reportedly said they were in the area to celebrate a female friend’s birthday.
The command added that an altercation between some teachers and the visitors further heightened suspicion within the school environment, leading students to spread unverified information to neighbouring schools and communities.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to categorically state that there was no bandit attack, invasion, or any form of security breach in the affected areas,” the statement said.
Police authorities confirmed that calm has since returned to the area and that academic, commercial, and social activities have resumed normally across Ogbomoso and adjoining communities.
The clarification comes amid heightened security concerns in parts of Oyo State following recent kidnapping incidents and attacks on schools within Oriire Local Government Area, which had already increased tension among residents.
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