The Oyo State Government has warned residents against spreading unverified security information, stressing that misinformation could create panic and disrupt ongoing security operations.

The warning was issued on Wednesday in a statement by the Special Adviser on Security, Abayomi Fagbenro.

Fagbenro said false security reports could undermine public confidence at a time when security agencies are intensifying efforts to rescue victims abducted during a recent terrorist attack in Ogbomoso.

He urged residents to verify security-related information before sharing it with others.

“The Office of the Special Adviser on Security wishes to draw the attention of the public to the need for responsible reporting of security-related concerns in line with the principle that citizens should see something and say something.

“Members of the public are urged to ensure that any information they communicate is accurate and verified, to avoid misinformation that may affect ongoing security operations and the confidence of the people,” he said.

The security adviser also warned against ignoring suspicious activities or failing to report genuine threats, describing such actions as dangerous.

“The public is also informed about the danger of false negatives, where actual threats or suspicious activities are ignored or not reported, which can slow down timely response from security agencies.

“Citizens are therefore advised to remain alert, observe carefully, and report only what they know or have reasonably confirmed to the appropriate authorities to prevent avoidable security incidents,” Fagbenro added.

He stressed that security remained a collective responsibility and noted that credible information from residents would help strengthen peace and safety in communities.

The warning followed rumours circulated on Tuesday alleging that bandits had launched another attack on Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and that the institution had been shut down.

The tension in the area comes after gunmen attacked three schools on the outskirts of Ogbomoso last Friday, killing two teachers and abducting several victims.

According to reports, one teacher was shot during the attack and later died, while the kidnappers allegedly beheaded another abducted teacher.

Security agencies are currently working to rescue seven students, 18 children, and six teachers who remain in captivity.