Oyo Police Deny Inviting Traditional Ruler Over Abduction Investigation

The Oyo State Police Command has refuted reports claiming that High Chief Tajudeen Abioye, the Elesinle of Esinle, was invited for questioning in connection with an ongoing abduction investigation in the state.

In a statement issued by the Command's Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the police described the report as false, unfounded, and misleading.

According to Ayanlade, the traditional ruler was never invited by the police at any stage of the investigation.

“The Command wishes to categorically state that this report is false, unfounded and misleading. At no time was the said traditional ruler invited for questioning in relation to the ongoing investigation,” he said.

The police further alleged that the publication was part of a deliberate effort by criminal elements to spread misinformation, create division within communities, and frustrate ongoing security operations aimed at rescuing abducted victims.

“The Command views this publication as part of a deliberate campaign of misinformation and disinformation orchestrated by criminal elements aimed at creating division, generating unnecessary tension and undermining coordinated security efforts currently directed at securing the safe rescue of the abducted victims and bringing perpetrators to justice,” Ayanlade stated.

The Police Command urged members of the public to disregard the report and avoid circulating unverified information capable of jeopardising ongoing investigations and security operations.

“Members of the public are therefore advised to disregard the report in its entirety and refrain from sharing unverified information capable of jeopardising ongoing security operations,” he added.

The Command reiterated its commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders and other security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of abducted victims and the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the crime.

The police also appealed to residents to remain vigilant, support security agencies with credible information, and rely on official channels for updates regarding security matters in the state.