Amid growing concerns and fear across parts of Oyo State, the police have moved swiftly to address reports claiming that suspected Lukarawa terrorists had entered forests around Ogbomoso and the Old Oyo National Park.
The clarification followed the circulation of a viral video and voice note on social media.
However, the Oyo State Police Command has firmly dismissed the reports, insisting that there is no evidence to support the claims. According to the command, investigations showed that the video being shared online is not recent and was deliberately recycled to create fear among the public.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said intelligence assessments carried out by security agencies found no proof of any terrorist infiltration within the affected areas.
“The Oyo State Police Command unequivocally rejects and dismisses the claims as false, misleading and entirely without factual basis,” the statement said.
The development comes at a time when security issues remain a major concern across Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the police said residents should remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information. The command stressed that security-related reports should always be confirmed through official channels before being shared on social media platforms.
Furthermore, authorities revealed that additional security measures have already been put in place across Ogbomoso and surrounding communities. Intelligence officers and covert operatives have been deployed to strategic locations to strengthen surveillance and improve response capabilities.
In addition, border communities within the Ogbomoso axis are being closely monitored.
The police also disclosed that collaboration has been strengthened with traditional rulers, hunters, vigilante groups, community leaders, and local security networks. Consequently, information gathering efforts have been expanded across vulnerable areas.
Moreover, confidence-building patrols have been intensified in several communities. Visibility policing has also been increased to reassure residents and maintain public trust.
According to the command, intelligence-led stop-and-search operations are being carried out regularly. Strategic deployments have also been made around the Old Oyo National Park corridor and nearby settlements.
The command noted that maintaining public confidence remains a top priority. As a result, all available resources are being used to monitor developments and protect lives and property.
While the viral claims continue to circulate in some quarters, police insist that there is currently no credible intelligence supporting reports of Lukarawa terrorists in Oyo.
