Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has assured residents that there is no security threat in the state following reports alleging that bandits had invaded some communities.
The rumours triggered panic in parts of the state, particularly in Ila, Ikirun, Obaagun and Osogbo, where concerned parents reportedly rushed to schools to take their children home over fears of possible abductions.
Several videos circulated on social media showing students fleeing from public schools in Ikirun amid claims that armed bandits were approaching the area.
Responding to the development on Tuesday through a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke dismissed the reports as false and urged residents to remain calm.
According to the governor, security assessments carried out in border communities and across the state found no evidence of kidnappings or bandit attacks.
“I task our people to go about their normal activities without fear. Our government has taken steps to secure our schools. The Ministry of Education and the relevant security agencies have worked out a security strategy that is being implemented,” he said.
Adeleke also stated that the armoured personnel carriers refurbished by his administration are on standby and can be deployed whenever necessary to strengthen security operations across the state.
