June 03, (THEWILL) — The Ogun State Government has dismissed as false and unfounded reports circulating on social media and other platforms alleging that Fulani herdsmen, Boko Haram insurgents, and other terrorist groups are planning to invade the state.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the government said available security intelligence and reports from relevant agencies indicate that Ogun State remains safe and secure.
The government urged residents not to be distracted by misinformation designed to create panic and fear among the populace, stressing that there is no truth in claims of an impending security threat within the state.
According to the statement, security agencies across Ogun State have remained vigilant, while adequate measures have been put in place to prevent any attempt by criminal elements to undermine public peace and order.
“The Ogun State Government has noted with dismay the rumours being circulated on social media and across different platforms indicating that the state is under imminent threat of invasion by killer herders, Boko Haram terrorists fleeing military operations in the North-East, and other criminal groups,” Akinmade said.
He added that some individuals appeared to be exploiting security challenges being experienced in other parts of the country to create unnecessary fear among Ogun residents.
“It is clear that some individuals are attempting to exploit security challenges being experienced in other parts of the country to create a climate of fear in Ogun State. This is highly irresponsible and capable of causing unnecessary anxiety among residents,” he said.
Akinmade disclosed that security agencies have already apprehended some individuals linked to the circulation of false reports and misinformation on social media.
He noted that those arrested are being prosecuted in accordance with the law, adding that the action is intended to serve as a deterrent to others who may seek to spread falsehoods, incite panic, or create chaos within the state.
“Security agencies have identified and apprehended some of the individuals responsible for spreading these false narratives.
“They are currently facing prosecution, and this should serve as a clear warning to anyone seeking to deliberately spread misinformation, create panic, or disrupt public peace.
“The government will continue to work with security agencies to ensure that those who engage in such acts are held accountable,” he stated.
The statement emphasized that Ogun State continues to enjoy strong collaboration among security agencies, local authorities, traditional institutions, and community stakeholders.
This synergy, it noted, has significantly enhanced intelligence gathering, rapid response capacity, and overall coordination in maintaining peace across the state.
It further disclosed that the state government is already working in close conjunction with all security agencies to fine-tune strategic, state-specific security measures aimed at ensuring lasting peace and stability.
The initiative, according to the government, is designed to deepen collaboration between conventional security agencies and traditional security architecture at the grassroots.
Akinmade explained that this integrated approach will strengthen intelligence sharing, community participation, and early warning systems, leveraging the enduring role of traditional institutions in local security management alongside modern security frameworks.
