Ondo Police Calm Fears: No Bandits Invading Akure
Akure, Ondo State , June 3, 2026- In a decisive move to restore public confidence, the Ondo State Police Command has firmly debunked circulating rumours of bandit infiltration in Akure metropolis.
The Command moved swiftly to dispel panic that had begun to grip residents, parents, and students following unverified claims spreading rapidly on social media and in some local circles.
The police assurance comes at a critical time. Ondo State has faced genuine security challenges in recent months, including bandit attacks that led to the abduction of 12 passengers in Isua Akoko in May 2026 and earlier incidents in Akure North communities like Ilu-Abo and Eleyewo.
These real threats have made residents highly sensitive to any whisper of danger, turning routine rumours into sources of widespread anxiety.
In an official press release, the Command categorically stated there is βno credible intelligence or reported incident indicating the presence or invasion of bandits in Akure.β
Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, urged parents and guardians to remain calm.
He stressed that βcomprehensive security assessments and intelligence gathering efforts conducted by the Command have not revealed any threat that should warrant panic or disruption of normal activities.β
The police further warned against the spread of false information.
βAnyone found responsible for disseminating misinformation intended to incite panic will be investigated and dealt with in accordance with the law,β the statement warned.
This tough stance reflects growing frustration with hoaxes that divert security resources and heighten unnecessary fear, a pattern also seen recently in neighbouring Osun and Ogun states.
Ondo has not been immune to insecurity. In April 2026, security forces foiled a planned bomb attack in Akure and arrested suspects with IED components.
Amotekun operatives have made several arrests of suspected bandits fleeing from other states.
These successes show proactive policing, yet they also fuel public nervousness when rumours surface.
Transitioning from reassurance to action, the Command emphasized that adequate security measures remain firmly in place across the state.
Students have been encouraged to continue their academic pursuits without fear, while residents are advised to stay vigilant and report genuine suspicious activities through official channels.
DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Police Public Relations Officer, signed the release and reiterated:
βThe Ondo State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and urges the public to rely only on verified information from official sources.β
This latest clarification aims to prevent disruption, especially as schools and daily business activities risk being affected by fear.
Analysts note that while the police have a duty to calm nerves, the underlying challenge of addressing real banditry in forest areas and border communities remains.
Sustained collaboration between police, Amotekun, and community groups will be key to long-term peace.
For now, the people of Akure can breathe easier. The message from the police is clear: no invasion has occurred, and security forces stay alert.
Residents are urged to focus on verified facts rather than panic-driven rumours as normal life continues in the state capital.
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