The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a content creator, Johnson Elleh, for allegedly producing and circulating a misleading video falsely claiming that bandits and kidnappers were operating along the Owode-Idiroko corridor of the state.
According to the police, the video, which gained widespread attention on social media, contained false information capable of causing fear, panic, and unnecessary tension among residents.
In a statement issued in Abeokuta, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed that the command immediately launched an investigation after the video surfaced online.
He explained that security operatives carefully reviewed the content and conducted extensive inquiries to verify the claims made in the footage.
The investigation, according to the police, revealed that the allegations contained in the video were entirely unfounded and deliberately crafted to mislead members of the public.
“Findings from our investigation showed that the video was false, deceptive, and intentionally designed to create anxiety, fear, and confusion among residents,” the police spokesperson stated.
Babaseyi further noted that security checks carried out across the Owode-Idiroko axis and surrounding communities found no evidence of any kidnapping or banditry incidents as portrayed in the viral video.
During the course of the investigation, detectives reportedly discovered that the suspect personally appeared in the video, which eventually led to his identification and arrest.
Preliminary findings indicated that the content was allegedly fabricated solely to attract public attention, generate online engagement, and increase social media visibility.
The police said the suspect’s actions had the potential to undermine public confidence in the state’s security framework and disrupt social order.
Authorities also disclosed that during interrogation, Elleh allegedly admitted to creating and sharing the video with the intention of provoking reactions and boosting online interactions.
The command confirmed that investigations are ongoing and assured the public that the suspect would be prosecuted in accordance with the law upon the conclusion of the inquiry.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has warned residents against creating, sharing, or forwarding unverified security-related information capable of causing panic among citizens.
The command stressed that the deliberate spread of fake news and false security alerts poses a serious threat to public peace and security and would not be tolerated.
Police authorities also warned that anyone found involved in producing, publishing, or disseminating misleading information would face legal consequences, regardless of their status or motive.
While acknowledging concerns generated by the viral video, the command reassured residents that Ogun State remains peaceful and secure.
The police urged members of the public to remain calm, continue their lawful activities without fear, and rely only on verified information released through official communication channels.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that individuals who spread false information are held accountable under the law.
