Kwara Government denies Kwara bandit control claims, accuses opposition and Peter Obi of spreading fake news about insecurity and causing panic among citizens.
The Kwara State Government has categorically denied the Kwara bandit control claims circulating across social media, describing them as false, misleading, and politically motivated.
The government insisted that no local government area in the state is under the control of bandits, contrary to the rumours being spread by opposition elements and some political figures.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Communications, Mrs. Bolanle Olukoju, debunked the Kwara bandit control claims and warned citizens against falling for fake news.
She emphasized that Kwara remains peaceful and under full governmental control, while security agencies continue to perform their duties effectively.
“We wish to alert the public to some reckless claims that nine local government areas of Kwara State are under siege by bandits. This is totally false. No local government area is under siege in the state,” the statement read.
Mrs. Olukoju described the rumours as part of a calculated campaign of misinformation aimed at creating fear and tarnishing the image of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration.
She said the few security incidents recorded in some rural parts of the state have been blown out of proportion by political actors and their online supporters.
According to her, those spreading the Kwara bandit control claims are acting as “digital equivalents of bandits” by weaponizing fake news to cause unrest.
“These people instill fear among citizens and undermine public trust in government institutions,” she added.
The Commissioner accused members of the opposition of amplifying the falsehood, both within and outside the state, to achieve political mileage.
She explained that such behaviour was not only irresponsible but dangerous to the peace and unity Kwara has worked hard to maintain.
“We have reasonable grounds to suspect that these elements are the online promoters and equivalence of bandits as they help to instill fear in the populace through fake news such as the unfounded claim of nine LGAs being under siege and movement of gunmen in parts of Asa LGA,” she noted.
In a surprising development, the government expressed deep disappointment in the former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, for allegedly lending his social media platforms to spread the misinformation. Mrs. Olukoju described Obi’s involvement as unbecoming of a national leader.
“We regretfully observe that Mr. Peter Obi has lent his social media handles to spreading such fake news. This is not expected from him as a statesman. We request Mr. Peter Obi to bring down the post as it is totally false and inappropriate,” she added.
She urged Nigerians, especially social media users, to always verify information before sharing it online.
The Commissioner explained that spreading false reports about security issues can trigger fear, confusion, and psychological distress among residents.
“We also urge members of the public to avoid sharing unverified information, which may cause panic, confusion, and psychological trauma to the people,” she said.
Mrs. Olukoju lamented that false claims like the Kwara bandit control claims make the work of security agencies even more difficult.
She noted that the police and other law enforcement agencies are already doing their best to keep the state safe and secure.
“This irresponsible behaviour is making things harder for the security forces who already have enough on their plates,” the statement emphasized.
The Kwara Government reaffirmed its full commitment to the safety of lives and property across all local government areas.
It assured residents that the state remains one of the most stable in the country, thanks to continuous collaboration with security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders.
Mrs. Olukoju highlighted several proactive measures taken by the administration to strengthen security, including community policing initiatives, intelligence-driven patrols, and partnerships with local vigilante networks.
These steps, she said, have significantly reduced criminal activities in both urban and rural areas.
She also appealed to residents to report suspicious movements or potential threats directly to security agencies rather than spreading unverified information online. “Security is everyone’s responsibility,” she noted, adding that community participation remains vital to maintaining peace.
Analysts and security experts have echoed similar sentiments, warning that misinformation and fake news pose serious threats to public safety.
They argue that sensational stories like the Kwara bandit control claims could create panic, damage investor confidence, and discourage tourism.
The Kwara State Government, therefore, called on journalists, bloggers, and media influencers to practice responsible reporting. It emphasized that accuracy and fact-checking should remain the guiding principles of ethical journalism, especially when it involves sensitive security matters.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration also reaffirmed its dedication to transparency, open governance, and timely communication.
The government pledged to continue providing verified updates on developments within the state to prevent misinformation from gaining ground.
Mrs. Olukoju urged citizens to disregard the Kwara bandit control claims and instead focus on supporting efforts to preserve peace and progress in the state.
“The Kwara State Government remains vigilant and proactive in protecting lives and property. There is no truth whatsoever in the Kwara bandit control claims.
“We must stand united against fake news and those who seek to destabilize our peace through lies and fearmongering,” she said.
The statement ended with an appeal for calm and cooperation among residents, reiterating that peace and truth are the strongest weapons against misinformation and political manipulation.
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