BENIN CITY, Nigeria (AP) — The Edo State Police Command says he has arrested a man accused of spreading false information that schoolchildren were kidnapped by bandits in several communities across the state.
The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Ernest Ugbomoiko of Afuze Community, allegedly originated and circulated the message on social media, claiming abductions had taken place in Afuze, Ehor, Otuo, Agbede and Igueben.
Police investigations found no evidence of kidnappings in any of the areas mentioned. In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer ASP Eno Ikoadem described the report as “false, misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.”
Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika reassured parents and school authorities that schools across Edo State remain safe. He said the deployment of security personnel to schools and vulnerable locations was part of ongoing proactive measures, not a response to the false alarm.
Authorities warned that individuals who spread misinformation capable of threatening public peace or undermining security operations would face prosecution.
The case highlights growing concerns in Nigeria about the impact of false reports on public safety. Analysts say misinformation, particularly on social media, can erode trust in institutions and create unnecessary fear, especially in regions where communities are already sensitive to security challenges.
Globally, governments and law enforcement agencies have struggled to contain the spread of false information, which can escalate tensions and complicate crisis management. In Nigeria, where security concerns remain high in some areas, officials stress that false alarms about kidnappings or attacks can divert resources and weaken public confidence in legitimate security operations.
Parents and education advocates welcomed the police clarification, saying it was important to reassure communities that schools remain safe. Civil society groups have also urged authorities to balance enforcement with public awareness campaigns, warning that heavy-handed responses alone may not curb the spread of misinformation.
For Edo State, the incident underscores both the vulnerability of communities to false reports and the importance of transparent communication between authorities and the public.
