The Ogun State Police Command has debunked viral reports alleging bandit attacks, kidnappings, and terrorist activities in parts of Ogun State, saying investigations found no evidence to support the claims.

In separate statements issued on Monday, police authorities also clarified that a widely circulated video being shared online as a recent security incident in Ogun State was actually footage from an incident that occurred in 2024.

Police spokesperson DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi said the circulation of outdated videos and unverified reports was causing unnecessary fear among residents and undermining ongoing security efforts.

“The footage relates to an incident that occurred in 2024 and is being deliberately recirculated with misleading captions capable of creating a false impression among members of the public,” the statement said.

Claims of Bandit Attacks Found to Be False

The police specifically rejected reports claiming that bandits had attacked schools and communities in Ota, Ifo, Atan-Ota, Ijoko, Agbado, and surrounding areas.

According to the command, there had been “no bandit attack, kidnapping incident, terrorist activity, or any form of security breach anywhere in Ogun State.”

The allegations had circulated widely on social media platforms, triggering concern among parents, students, and residents.

Police said officers were immediately deployed to the affected locations to verify the claims and reassure communities.

Schools Remained Open and Operational

The command said its School Protection Squad, working alongside divisional police officers, conducted security assessments at schools mentioned in the reports, including Oluke Community High School and Sango Ota High School in the Ijoko axis.

Officials reported that all schools visited were operating normally.

According to police findings, students attended classes as scheduled and completed their academic activities without disruption.

The command added that commercial and social activities also continued normally across the affected communities.

Clarification Over Arrest of 38 Foreign Nationals

Police also addressed online claims linking the arrest of 38 foreign nationals in Atan-Ota to alleged banditry activities.

Authorities said the individuals, 19 men and 19 women from Côte d’Ivoire aged between 25 and 35, were discovered in an apartment in Kajola-Ilese, Atan-Ota, following intelligence reports.

According to the command, the individuals were unable to provide valid immigration or travel documents during preliminary screening.

The police said the group claimed to have entered Nigeria for online business activities.

After initial investigations, the suspects were transferred to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further inquiries and administrative procedures.

“At no time during the operation were bandits, kidnappers, or terrorists arrested, nor was any security-related incident recorded in connection with the apprehension,” the command stated.

Police described attempts to link the arrests to violent crime as “entirely false” and capable of creating panic.

Why It Matters

Security-related misinformation has become an increasing concern across Nigeria, particularly on social media platforms where old videos and unverified claims can spread rapidly.

Experts say false security alerts can create public anxiety, disrupt economic activities, and divert security resources from genuine threats.

The latest clarification by Ogun police comes amid broader efforts by security agencies nationwide to combat misinformation and improve public trust in official communication channels.

For residents, the statement seeks to reassure communities that normal activities can continue while authorities maintain surveillance and patrol operations across the state.

Industry and Public Perspective

Security analysts have repeatedly urged Nigerians to verify information before sharing security-related content online.

Digital safety advocates warn that misleading posts often gain traction during periods of heightened public concern, making fact-checking more important than ever.

Community leaders in many parts of the country have also encouraged residents to rely on official security agencies for verified updates rather than unconfirmed social media messages.

What the Police Are Saying

“The Ogun State Police Command reassures all residents that Ogun State remains safe, peaceful, and secure.”

“The spread of outdated and misleading materials not only causes unnecessary anxiety but also undermines the efforts of security agencies working tirelessly to maintain peace, public safety, and order across the State.”

“Residents across Ogun State, including Ota, Ifo, Atan-Ota, Ijoko, Sango-Ota, Agbado, and adjoining communities, are strongly advised to remain calm, continue their lawful activities without fear.”

What Happens Next?

Police say officers remain deployed across Ogun State, conducting patrols, intelligence-led operations, and community engagement activities.

The command has urged residents to verify security-related information through official channels before sharing it online and to report credible security concerns through emergency lines.

Authorities also say they will continue monitoring misinformation capable of causing public panic.

Rite Foods Limited has joined millions of Muslims in Nigeria and around the world to celebrate Eid al-Kabir, urging Nigerians to embrace the values of sacrifice, unity, gratitude, and compassion during the festive season.

In a goodwill message released ahead of the celebration, the food and beverage company said Eid al-Kabir remains a significant moment for reflection, family bonding, and acts of generosity.

The festival, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, commemorates the obedience and unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim, a central story in Islamic tradition that continues to inspire millions globally.

Company urges Nigerians to promote peace and togetherness

Speaking during the celebration, the Managing Director of Rite Foods Limited, Seleem Adegunwa, encouraged Muslim faithful to reflect on the deeper meaning of Eid beyond the festivities.

According to him, the season offers an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen relationships, support one another, and demonstrate resilience amid economic and social challenges.

“Eid al-Kabir is a time for sharing joyful moments with loved ones, creating memories, and strengthening bonds moments that Rite Foods is proud to be a part of through its refreshing and quality product offerings designed for every occasion,” Adegunwa said.

The company said its range of consumer products continues to support social gatherings and celebrations across Nigerian homes.

Its products include the 13 variants of Bigi Carbonated Soft Drinks, Bigi Premium Drinking Water, Sosa Fruit Drink, Fearless Energy Drink, Rite Spicy Beef Sausage, Bigi Beef Sausage, and Bigi Flex Sausage.

Why the message matters

Corporate Eid messages have become increasingly important in Nigeria as companies seek to connect with consumers beyond products and services.

Analysts say festive periods such as Eid al-Kabir also present opportunities for businesses to reinforce social responsibility, cultural inclusion, and brand loyalty in a highly competitive consumer market.

Nigeria’s fast-moving consumer goods industry has faced rising inflation, increased production costs, and shifting consumer spending habits in recent years, making emotional connection and community engagement more important for brands.

Industry observers note that brands that align themselves with national celebrations and shared values often maintain stronger public visibility and consumer trust.

Rite Foods highlights commitment to social impact

Also speaking, the Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Rite Foods, Ekuma Eze, called on Nigerians to continue promoting peace and generosity during and after the Eid celebrations.

According to him, the company remains focused on enriching shared experiences through quality products and responsible corporate engagement.

“Eid al-Kabir is a period that reminds us of the importance of faith, sacrifice, and humanity. At Rite Foods, we remain committed to enriching everyday experiences by providing quality brands that bring people together around moments of happiness and celebration,” Eze said.

Rite Foods has earned recognition within Nigeria’s fast-moving consumer goods sector for innovation, sustainability, and social impact.

The company has received awards from organisations including the SISA Awards, SERAS Awards, and the Edge Awards.

Industry and public perspectives

Marketing experts say festive campaigns remain a strategic tool for consumer brands in Nigeria, particularly during religious celebrations observed by millions of people.

Consumers across social media have also continued to share Eid celebrations featuring food, beverages, and family gatherings, trends that typically drive increased visibility for food and beverage companies during festive periods.

What’s next for the FMCG industry?

Industry experts expect Nigerian consumer brands to continue focusing on affordability, emotional storytelling, and community-based marketing as economic pressures affect household spending.

Companies are also increasingly investing in sustainability and social responsibility initiatives to improve public perception and long-term consumer engagement.

For many Nigerians celebrating Eid al-Kabir this year, the focus remains on faith, family, generosity, and unity despite ongoing economic challenges.

The Chairman of Conference of the United Evangelical Church Nigeria, Rev. Daniel Anjorin, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other government leaders to take “urgent, decisive and sustained actions” to address Nigeria’s worsening security and economic challenges.

Rev. Anjorin made the remarks while speaking to journalists at the end of a three-day pastoral visit to the Lagos Township Superintendency of the church in Surulere on Sunday.

The cleric said the safety and welfare of Nigerians should remain a top priority as the country continues to face rising hardship ahead of another election cycle.

He warned that governments at all levels could not afford to ignore the growing struggles faced by citizens.

Concerns Over Security and Cost of Living

Rev. Anjorin specifically urged President Tinubu to address the country’s deteriorating security situation, rising fuel costs and inadequate electricity supply.

According to him, policies introduced by government must directly improve the lives and welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

“Nigerians should not lose hope, they should remain steadfast, prayerfully and have confidence in God who is able to do all things,” he said.

He added:

“Government at all levels on the other hand should re-double efforts for stronger national response to curb the growing wave of insecurity and hardship faced by Nigerians.”

Nigeria has continued to grapple with high inflation, rising transportation costs, persistent electricity shortages and security concerns in several regions, issues that have intensified public debate over economic reforms and governance.

Why It Matters

The comments reflect growing concerns among religious leaders, civil society groups and citizens over the impact of economic reforms on daily life.

Fuel price increases following subsidy reforms have pushed transportation and food costs higher across the country, while unreliable electricity supply continues to affect households and businesses.

Security also remains a major issue, with many Nigerians expressing concerns over kidnappings, violent attacks and community safety in parts of the country.

Analysts say religious organisations remain influential voices in Nigeria’s public discourse because of their close connection to communities affected by economic hardship.

Call for Unity and National Development

Rev. Anjorin also called on Nigerians to avoid tribalism, nepotism and divisive sentiments, urging citizens to focus on building a peaceful and prosperous nation.

The church leader reaffirmed the support of UEC members for governments at all levels and pledged continued prayers for national development.

He expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its current socio-economic challenges.

“Exceeding, unspeakable great joy and divine help are ahead and sufficient to lead the nation through its socio-economic challenges,” he said.

Church Visit and Leadership Support

Speaking about his visit to the Lagos Township Superintendency, Rev. Anjorin said the trip was aimed at strengthening the church spiritually and administratively.

He commended church leaders and members in Surulere for what he described as their “show of love and understanding” and the spiritual revival witnessed during the visit.

Earlier, the Superintendent of the Lagos Township Superintendency, Rev. Idorenyin James, congratulated Rev. Anjorin on his emergence as Chairman of Conference of the church.

Rev. James described the appointment as “divinely orchestrated” and pledged the support of the superintendency to his administration.