Police arrest man for issuing false security alert and spreading fake news in Ogun.

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested Mr. Johnson Elleh for producing and circulating a misleading video that falsely claimed kidnapping and banditry incidents along the Owode-Idiroko axis of Ogun State.

The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, announced the arrest on Wednesday.

According to Babaseyi, the command immediately examined the viral video and launched a swift investigation to verify its claims.

The investigation found that the video was false, misleading, and deliberately designed to create fear, panic, and anxiety among the public.

“Extensive investigation and verification further established that there was no kidnapping or banditry incident as portrayed in the video within the Owode-Idiroko axis or its environs,” Babaseyi said.

He added that the suspect was featured in the video, was identified by detectives, and was subsequently arrested.

“Preliminary findings indicate that he deliberately fabricated and circulated the false narrative for attention and content creation purposes,” the police spokesperson said.

He further stated that the suspect’s actions could have caused unnecessary public alarm, disrupted social order, and undermined public confidence in the state’s security architecture.

Babaseyi added that the suspect will be charged in court once the investigation concludes.

The Command also warned individuals and groups who deliberately spread false security alerts to desist from doing so or face legal consequences.

“The Command will continue to identify, arrest, investigate, and prosecute all persons found culpable, irrespective of status or motive,” Babaseyi said. “Residents are encouraged to remain calm, continue their lawful activities without fear, and rely solely on verified information disseminated through official channels.”