IBADAN, Nigeria — The Oyo State Police Command has strongly refuted viral reports alleging that a prominent traditional ruler, High Chief Tajudeen Abioye, has been summoned for questioning regarding the recent abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in the state.
The formal rebuttal was issued on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, by the command to correct public records and preserve the integrity of ongoing security operations.
Okay News reports that the circulating reports had claimed that Chief Abioye, the Elesinele of Esinele in Oriire Local Government Area, was being interrogated in connection with the mass kidnapping. Dismissing the claims as completely false and unfounded, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, stated that the command has at no point extended an invitation to the traditional ruler regarding the investigation.
The command characterized the publication as a deliberate campaign of misinformation and disinformation orchestrated by criminal elements to create division, generate unnecessary tension, and undermine coordinated rescue plans. Urging members of the public to completely disregard the report and refrain from spreading unverified information, the command reiterated its commitment to working in synergy with sister agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the victims. Residents were advised to support lawful efforts by utilizing the Oyo State emergency response channels to provide credible, timely intelligence.
