The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed viral social media claims alleging that armed bandits had invaded communities in Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo and other parts of the state, describing the reports as false and misleading.
In a statement, Lagos Police Spokesperson SP Abimbola Adebisi said there was no security crisis, coordinated attack or invasion targeting schools, children or residents in any part of Lagos State.
The command said the circulating posts were intended to create fear and panic among the public and urged residents to disregard the claims.
Police authorities reassured residents that schools across the state remain safe and that security agencies have maintained adequate surveillance and operational presence in communities.
24-Year-Old Commercial Cyclist Falsely Accused Killed In Lagos
Meanwhile the command said the spread of the false security alert had contributed to a fatal incident involving a 24-year-old commercial motorcycle rider, identified as Kulaha Ayuba.
According to police, some youths allegedly attacked Ayuba after wrongly accusing him of being a Fulani bandit based on the unverified reports circulating online. His motorcycle was reportedly stolen and his body was later discovered in a swamp within the community.
Police said 15 suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident and were assisting investigators.
Adebisi said the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding, while relying on official security channels for information.
The statement said the state Police Chief encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities to the police rather than act on unverified social media posts.
The command said it remained committed to protecting lives and property and maintaining security across the state, adding that those found responsible for the killing would face prosecution.