Police Arrest Content Creator Over Alleged Fake Banditry Video Claim

According to Ireporter Online, the Ogun State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has arrested a man identified as Johnson Elleh over allegations of producing and circulating a false video claiming that kidnapping and banditry incidents were occurring along the Owode-Idiroko axis of the state.

The police described the viral clip, which spread widely across social media platforms, as misleading and capable of inciting fear and panic among residents. This was disclosed in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer in Ogun State, Oluseyi Babaseyi, who confirmed that the command immediately launched an investigation after the video surfaced online.

He stated that a thorough review of the content revealed it was deliberately fabricated to misinform the public and create unnecessary tension. Further investigations reportedly confirmed that no such security incident took place in the Owode-Idiroko axis or any surrounding communities as portrayed in the video.

Authorities also disclosed that detectives were able to trace and identify the suspect after discovering his involvement in the viral footage, which eventually led to his arrest. Preliminary findings suggested that Elleh allegedly created and shared the content for attention and online engagement purposes.

The police noted that the act had the potential to disrupt public peace, generate fear, and undermine confidence in the state’s security system. During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to intentionally producing and circulating the misleading video to attract social media attention and provoke reactions.

The command further confirmed that investigations are ongoing, after which the suspect will be charged to court. It also issued a strong warning against the creation and spread of unverified security-related information, stressing that such actions pose a serious threat to public order.

The police condemned the spread of fake security alerts and urged residents to desist from sharing unverified content capable of causing panic. It added that individuals found guilty of such offences would be arrested and prosecuted regardless of their status or intent.

While acknowledging public concern over the viral video, the command reassured residents that Ogun State remains safe, peaceful, and secure, urging citizens to go about their lawful activities without fear and rely only on official and verified information channels.