The Ondo State Police Command has debunked circulating reports that it confirmed the killing of 20 farmers in the attack on some communities in the state. The Police Public Relations Officer, Funmilayo Odunlami disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday.
This is in response to spreading reports about recent attacks on four communities in Akure North. According to the reports, the PPRO confirmed the killing of over 20 farmers by armed herdsmen who allegedly attacked these communities.
Odunlami in her statement explained that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ala on Saturday, received information regarding an attack at Sunday Camp. This is a settlement along the boundary of Ondo and Edo state.
However, according to her, the Police Command did not confirm the killing of 20 farmers as falsely reported. Furthermore, the PPRO confirmed that the Police Command is aware of the attack that manifested Sunday Camp.
She added that the Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi has directed security officials to intensify ongoing covert anti-crime operations in the state. Additionally, the Command exhorted journalists and media organizations to fact-check information from official sources before publication to prevent misinformation and public unrest.
Meanwhile, the Senior Special Assistant to Ondo State Governor on Security Matters, Olugbenga Atiba dismissed the attack reports as an attempt to create panic among residents of the state.
While reacting to media reports in his statement, Atiba warned the perpetrators of the sham to desist from actions that create chaos and distrust between the government and the people.
He went on to reaffirm the commitment of the Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa to the protection of the lives and property of every denizen of the state, urging residents to go on about their daily activities without fear.
