Authorities of the Lagos State Police Command have dismissed as false and misleading a viral social media alert alleging that armed bandits had invaded communities in Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo and other parts of the state, targeting schools and children.

The Police Authorities describe the claims as unfounded and intended to create unnecessary fear, panic and apprehension among residents.

Police Public Relations Officer SP Abimbola Adebisi confirmed this in a statement issued on Monday.

SP Adebisi stated that there is no security crisis, invasion or coordinated attack on any school or community in the affected areas or elsewhere in Lagos State.

She assured residents that schools remain safe and security agencies have maintained adequate surveillance across communities.

Adebisi disclosed that the false alarm had already led to a tragic loss of life.

According to her, a 24-year-old commercial motorcycle rider, identified as Kulaha Ayuba, was allegedly mistaken for a bandit by some youths who acted on the unverified reports.

In her statement, the victim was reportedly attacked and fatally assaulted after being labelled a Fulani bandit, his motorcycle was allegedly stolen, while his body was later discovered in a swamp within the community.

She said swift intervention led to the arrest of 15 suspects in connection with the incident.

Adebisi said the suspects are currently under investigation, assuring the public that anyone found culpable would face prosecution.

The Police Imagemaker condemned the deliberate spread of unverified information capable of inciting public disorder, ethnic profiling, mob violence and hatred against any group.

She warned that individuals responsible for originating or circulating false and inflammatory content would be investigated and prosecuted under applicable laws.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding, while continuing their lawful activities without fear.

Fatai also advised the public to report suspicious activities through official security channels rather than relying on unverified information circulating on social media.

He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring Lagos residents that adequate security measures remain in place to sustain peace and security across the state.