The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has moved swiftly to quash a viral “wanted” notice falsely claiming that Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo, was wanted by the Office of the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Unit.
The notice, which circulated widely across social media platforms over the past week, caused a wave of speculation among fans and the general public.
However, the NPF has categorically dismissed the claims as “false, misleading, and not issued by the Force.”
In an official statement posted on its verified Facebook page, the Police clarified that the controversial poster did not originate from the Force and was never published on any of its official communication channels.
The statement reads in part:
“FAKE NEWS ALERT! This ‘WANTED’ poster of actress Iyabo Ojo did not emanate from the Nigeria Police Force.
It is false, misleading & was never posted on any official NPF platform. Disregard & stop spreading fake news.”
The Force also underscored the importance of verifying news from official NPF channels before sharing or reacting to stories online, warning Nigerians against being misled by unverified sources.
“Verify only from official NPF channels,” the statement further emphasized.
This incident highlights the growing problem of misinformation on social media, where fake news can quickly gain traction and affect reputations. Industry observers have noted that celebrities in Nigeria, particularly Nollywood actors, are frequent targets of such misleading campaigns, often resulting in unnecessary panic among fans.
Iyabo Ojo, known for her roles in popular Nollywood films and her active social media presence, has not publicly commented on the fake notice.
However, insiders suggest that the actress is closely monitoring the situation and may take legal steps if the misinformation continues to circulate.
Digital security experts also advise internet users to exercise caution and cross-check reports, especially when they involve high-profile individuals.
With the rise of online scams and impersonation tactics, verifying information through official and credible sources has become essential.
The NPF, has reiterated that all communications, press releases, and public advisories are accessible through their official social media handles and press offices.
Citizens are encouraged to rely solely on these channels for accurate updates, especially regarding law enforcement activities.
This clarification by the Police comes at a time when the spread of false information has become a significant concern, not just in Nigeria but globally.
Analysts warn that unchecked fake news can erode public trust, fuel unnecessary fears, and sometimes lead to legal complications.
As the public continues to engage with social media, this episode serves as a reminder to always question the authenticity of viral reports, especially those that involve high-profile personalities like Iyabo Ojo.