Panic in Osun: Police Arrest 22-Year-Old for False Bandit Invasion Claim on Social Media

Panic in Osun: Police Arrest 22-Year-Old for False Bandit Invasion Claim on Social Media

June 6, 2026

Osogbo, Osun State – The Osun State Police Command has arrested a 22-year-old man for allegedly spreading false information on social media claiming that bandits had invaded parts of the state, an act authorities say caused unnecessary panic among residents.

The arrest was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, who explained that the suspect was apprehended following investigations into a viral video shared on Facebook.

According to the police, the young man uploaded a video on Monday through his personal Facebook account, falsely alleging that armed bandits had infiltrated communities in Osun State. The post quickly gained attention online, triggering fear, anxiety and widespread concern among residents who believed the state was under an imminent security threat.

However, preliminary investigations conducted by the command revealed that the video did not depict any bandit attack or invasion. Instead, the footage reportedly showed members of the public restraining an individual suffering from a mental health condition.

“The suspect published a misleading video claiming that bandits had invaded Osun State. Our investigation established that the content was false and capable of causing public panic,” Ojelabi stated.

The police spokesperson noted that the dissemination of such misleading information constitutes an offence under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes Act, 2015, as well as other relevant laws that prohibit the intentional spread of false information capable of disturbing public peace and security.

Ojelabi disclosed that the suspect was arrested on Wednesday and questioned by investigators. However, after what he described as a passionate appeal from the suspect’s elderly parents, the young man was released.

The command further revealed that the suspect had admitted his wrongdoing and subsequently tendered a public apology for his actions. He was also warned against engaging in similar conduct in the future.

The Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, used the opportunity to caution residents against sharing unverified information, especially on social media platforms where false reports can spread rapidly and create unnecessary tension.

Gotan stressed that misinformation and fake news pose serious threats to public order, warning that individuals who deliberately circulate falsehoods capable of causing panic or disrupting peace would be held accountable under the law.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to combating the misuse of digital platforms and ensuring that social media is not used as a tool for spreading fear, misinformation or inciting unrest within the state.

The police commissioner also urged residents to verify security-related information through official channels before sharing it with others. He encouraged members of the public to rely on credible sources and report suspicious activities directly to security agencies rather than spreading unconfirmed reports online.

The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over the impact of fake news and misinformation in the digital age, particularly on security matters. Authorities warn that false alarm reports can divert security resources, create public confusion and undermine genuine efforts to address security challenges.

The Osun State Police Command reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance against the deliberate dissemination of false information and pledged to continue monitoring online activities to protect public peace and safety.