The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed a viral video circulating on social media, which claims that suspected Boko Haram members recently attempted to invade the state via the Ibadan Expressway, labelling the footage as recycled and misleading.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Ibadan, the state capital, the command’s spokesperson, CSP Adewale Osifeso, clarified that the video, which allegedly shows trucks loaded with motorcycles and weapons, is not recent and poses no current threat to public safety.
According to Osifeso, “The Police Command wishes to categorically state that the video making rounds is not only outdated but was also originally recorded in 2022. It has resurfaced with a misleading narrative aimed at creating unnecessary panic among the populace.”
The viral clip, which purports the arrest of insurgents by security forces along the Ibadan Expressway, has raised concerns online, but Osifeso said investigations have confirmed it is a deliberate attempt by mischief-makers to spread fear and misinformation—particularly during a period of heightened security vigilance across the state.
He further revealed a key detail discrediting the video’s authenticity: “One of the officers briefly seen in the clip, DSP Segun Adeyemo, who was the Divisional Crime Officer at Ilero Division, officially retired from the Nigeria Police Force in August 2024 after a distinguished career. This clearly invalidates any claim that the footage reflects a recent event.”
The Police Command urged residents to remain calm and security-conscious while advising against the further spread of outdated and unverified content.
“We call on the public to verify information before sharing it, especially on social media platforms,” Osifeso said, reaffirming the command’s commitment to maintaining peace and protecting lives and property throughout the state.
