The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a man identified as Johnson Elleh for allegedly producing and circulating a false video claiming incidents of kidnapping and banditry along the Owode-Idiroko axis of the state.
According to a statement released on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the viral video was thoroughly investigated after it sparked concern among residents.
Preliminary findings revealed that the content of the video was entirely fabricated and deliberately designed to create fear, panic, and anxiety within the public. The police confirmed that no such kidnapping or banditry incident occurred in the area as portrayed.
Further investigation led to the identification and arrest of Elleh, who was reportedly featured in the video. During interrogation, he confessed to intentionally creating and sharing the misleading content to generate online engagement and attract attention.
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The police noted that such actions are capable of disrupting public peace, undermining trust in security agencies, and causing unnecessary alarm among citizens.
This incident follows a similar case involving another individual who admitted to fabricating a false bandit attack for social media popularity.
The Ogun State Police Command strongly condemned the spread of fake news and warned that individuals involved in disseminating unverified security information would face legal consequences.
Authorities reassured residents that the state remains safe and urged the public to rely only on verified information from official channels.
Investigations are ongoing, and the suspect is expected to be charged to court upon conclusion.
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