Viral Video Lands Creator In Trouble As Police Crack Down On Fake Banditry Claims

The Ogun State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has arrested a man, Johnson Elleh, over allegations that he produced and circulated a misleading video suggesting that kidnapping and banditry activities were occurring along the Owode-Idiroko axis of the state.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The police described the viral video as false and capable of causing fear and panic among residents. This was contained in a statement issued in Abeokuta by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Oluseyi Babaseyi.

According to the statement, the command immediately launched an investigation after the video surfaced online, subjecting its content to verification.

Findings by the police reportedly confirmed that the claims in the video were fabricated and intended to mislead the public.

“Findings revealed that the video was false, misleading, and deliberately designed to create fear, panic, and anxiety among members of the public,” the statement said.

The police further clarified that no kidnapping or banditry incidents were recorded in the Owode-Idiroko axis or surrounding communities as alleged in the video.

Investigations later led to the identification and arrest of Elleh after detectives discovered he featured in the clip.

Preliminary findings indicated that the suspect allegedly created and shared the content for attention and social media engagement purposes.

Authorities warned that such actions could incite public panic, disrupt social order, and undermine confidence in the state’s security architecture.

During interrogation, the suspect allegedly admitted to deliberately creating and circulating the video to generate online traction and public reaction.

The police said investigations were ongoing, adding that the suspect would be charged to court upon completion of the process.

The command also cautioned residents against spreading unverified security-related information, warning that misinformation poses a threat to public peace.

It reiterated that individuals involved in creating or sharing fake security alerts would face the full weight of the law.

While acknowledging public concern over the viral video, the police assured residents that Ogun State remains safe and secure, urging them to remain calm and rely only on verified official sources.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining public order across the state.