The Ondo State Government has refuted reports alleging that a student was kidnapped from a school in Akure, describing the claim as unfounded and intended to cause unnecessary panic among residents.
The government said investigations conducted by security agencies showed that no such incident occurred in any educational institution within the state capital.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, who assured parents and guardians that schools in Akure remained secure and were carrying on with normal academic activities.
According to Adeniyan, checks carried out by relevant security agencies revealed that the reports circulating on social media and messaging platforms were false.
“There has been no reported or confirmed case of kidnapping in any primary, secondary or tertiary institution in Akure. Schools across the metropolis are operating normally without any security breach,” he said.
He noted that personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun, and the Department of State Services had assessed the situation and confirmed that there was no cause for alarm.
“Security agencies have conducted verification across school environments in Akure and confirmed that normal activities are ongoing. There is no incident to justify the rumours being spread online,” Adeniyan added.
The governor’s aide further stated that the state government had continued to strengthen security arrangements around schools through collaboration with education stakeholders and law enforcement agencies.
“Our administration remains committed to the safety of pupils, students and teachers. Existing security measures in and around schools are being sustained to ensure a conducive learning environment,” he said.
He urged residents to avoid spreading unverified information, warning that false reports could create fear and disrupt public peace.
Adeniyan also encouraged members of the public with credible security information to contact the nearest police station or Amotekun office for prompt attention.