The Ogun State Police Command has dismissed reports claiming that thugs and miscreants had besieged the palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland.
Oluseyi Babaseyi, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the command, clarified that the presence of security personnel at the palace was part of a routine and planned deployment rather than an emergency response to an attack. The command’s statement aimed to correct misinformation that had begun to circulate locally and online.
The clarification follows rumours regarding an alleged siege on the Awujale’s palace, which suggested that unidentified individuals were attempting to breach the premises and disrupt the peace of the traditional ruler’s residence.
Babaseyi stated that the security measures in place were intended to ensure the continuous safety of the Awujale and to maintain order within the Ijebu Ode community. He emphasised that the deployment was not a reaction to any immediate threat, criminal activity, or breach of security, but was instead a scheduled operational movement.
Official response to misinformation
The rumours, which gained traction through various digital platforms, alleged that the palace was under immediate threat from organised groups of miscreants. However, the command clarified that the officers present were conducting standard patrols and duty-related assignments as part of their regular security mandate.
The command expressed concern over the speed at which unverified claims circulated on social media, noting that such reports can cause unnecessary panic among residents and create a sense of instability. Babaseyi urged the public to rely on official police communications for security updates rather than speculative posts or unconfirmed reports from social media users.
The Awujale of Ijebuland holds a significant position in the traditional hierarchy of Ogun State, and security at the palace is a sensitive matter for the local population. The police maintained that the visibility of officers in the area was a proactive measure to bolster security and protect key institutions within the state.
The command has warned that it will monitor social media platforms closely and will take necessary action against individuals found to be intentionally spreading false information that could undermine public peace or cause social unrest. The police are currently reviewing the sources of the initial rumours to determine if any legal action is required.
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