Lagos Police Debunk Viral Bandit Invasion Claims, Warn Against Spreading False Security Alerts
The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading a series of viral social media posts claiming that armed bandits had invaded Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo and other parts of Lagos State, allegedly targeting schools and children.
In a statement issued by the Command, the Police described the reports and accompanying graphic materials circulating online as unfounded and deliberately designed to create fear, panic, and tension among residents.
According to the Command, there is no security crisis, invasion, or coordinated attack on any school or community in Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo, or any other area of the state. Residents were reassured that schools across Lagos remain safe, while security agencies continue to maintain strong surveillance and adequate security presence in communities statewide.
The Police, however, expressed concern that the false alarm had already led to a tragic incident involving the death of a 24-year-old commercial motorcycle rider, identified as Kulaha Ayuba.
Preliminary investigations revealed that some youths, acting on the unverified rumours of bandit attacks, allegedly profiled the victim as a Fulani bandit, attacked and killed him. His motorcycle was reportedly stolen, while his body was later discovered in a swamp within the community.
Following swift police intervention, fifteen suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident and are currently under investigation. The Command assured the public that all persons found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
The Police condemned the deliberate spread of false information capable of inciting public disorder, ethnic profiling, mob violence, and hatred against certain groups, warning residents against sharing unverified reports on social media.
The Command further warned that anyone found responsible for originating or circulating false and inciting information capable of causing panic, ethnic tension, or violence would be investigated and prosecuted in line with the law.
Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding while continuing their daily activities without fear.
He also encouraged Lagosians to report suspicious activities through the nearest police station or official emergency channels rather than relying on unverified online information.
The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property, assuring residents that adequate security measures remain in place across the state to sustain peace and public safety.