- Safiu Kehinde
The Oyo State Police Command have cleared air surrounding the abduction of residents by its personnel as alleged in a viral video by the Chairman of Agidigbo Radio Station, Hamzat Oriyomi.
Reacting over the video in a statement issued on Monday, the Police Command dismissed the allegations, stressing that the video was recycled clip from the 2020 #EndSARS Protest.
This, according to the statement, was also confirmed by Hamzat who held that the issues raised in the video were no longer relevant.
While labelling the recycled clip as misinformation and attempt by fifth columnists to create apprehension, the Command urged members of the public to refrain from circulating old video clips of issues that have been conclusively dealt with.
It also urged them avoid spreading unverified and incorrect information that could create panic and disrupt public order in the state.
The statement read in part; “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to address and clarify the misinformation circulating on social media regarding an old video clip of Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, Chairman of Agidigbo 88.7FM Radio Station.
“The video, which shows Alhaji Hamzat alleging that residents were being abducted by uniformed individuals, has been confirmed by him to be a recycled clip from the 2020 ENDSARS protests. According to him, the issues raised in the video are no longer relevant.
“The recycling of this video at a time when relative security has been achieved can only be attributed to the handiwork of fifth columnists, whose modus operandi is to spread unfounded rumors and create apprehension.
“The Command therefore advises citizens not to be distracted by such antics.
“While reiterating its commitment to guaranteeing the safety and security of all residents in Oyo State, the Command passionately appeals to members of the public to refrain from circulating old video clips of issues that have been conclusively dealt with.
“They are further advised to avoid spreading unverified and incorrect information that could create panic and disrupt public order in the state.
“Furthermore, the Command encourages residents to always verify information from multiple trusted sources before sharing it on social media and other platforms.
“Strict sanctions and potential legal action will be taken against individuals who spread unverified information or cause public disorder.
“In cases of emergency, the Command can always be reached through these numbers: OYO STATE CALL RESPONSE CENTER TOLL-FREE LINE: 615”