The Edo State Police Command has arrested a woman, Uzebor Emmanuel, widely known on social media as “Aza Woman,” over the circulation of false claims alleging the kidnapping of students in Benin City.
According to the police, the suspect had shared viral posts claiming that students of Green Park Academy in Aduwawa and Western Boys’ College in Ikpoba Hill were abducted.
The reports, which quickly spread across social media platforms, were later confirmed to be entirely false.
In an official statement released on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Eno Ikoedem, stated that preliminary investigations revealed the suspect knowingly disseminated misleading information.
The false reports included claims that about six individuals were kidnapped through mini buses, with some allegedly escaping while others paid ransom.
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The police noted that the misinformation triggered widespread panic, heightened public anxiety, and risked undermining confidence in the state’s security system.
“The deliberate spread of false information, particularly on matters relating to public safety, is a serious offence with far-reaching consequences,” the statement read.
“Such actions can incite panic, disrupt public order, and divert security resources from genuine emergencies.”
The command further warned against using social media for misinformation, stressing that public safety should never be compromised for online engagement or popularity.
Uzebor Emmanuel is expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Edo State Police Command also urged the public to verify information from credible sources before sharing and to act responsibly in order to maintain peace and order in society.
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