The Chairman of Imota Local Council Development Area, Benson Ayodele, has dismissed as false reports claiming that two schoolgirls were killed during a bandit attack on a primary school in the community, assuring residents that Imota remains peaceful and secure.
The report, which circulated widely on social media and was amplified during a live phone-in programme on GBEDU 100.1FM, alleged that armed bandits had invaded a public primary school in Imota and killed two pupils.
Reacting to the development on Monday, Ayodele described the claim as “false, misleading and entirely unfounded,” stressing that no security agency or government authority had reported such an incident within the council area.
“Our attention has been drawn to a viral video alleging that two girls were killed at a primary school in Imota. We wish to state categorically that the information is false, misleading and entirely unfounded,” the chairman said.
According to him, checks with relevant authorities showed there was no verified report, official record or credible security intelligence to support the allegation.
“There is no verified report, official record, or credible security information confirming the alleged incident within Imota LCDA,” he added.
Ayodele warned against the growing spread of unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic among residents, noting that many viral reports are often taken out of context or completely fabricated.
He urged members of the public to rely on official communication channels and security agencies for information relating to public safety.
“The safety and security of all residents remain a top priority of our administration. We encourage everyone to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the management of GBEDU 100.1FM has apologised for broadcasting the claim, admitting that the information was aired before it was properly verified.
In a statement signed by its Chairman and Programmes Director, Dayo Ajiteru, the station explained that the report originated from calls received during a live phone-in segment.
“During our live programme, callers alleged that bandits had invaded a public school in Imota and that two girls were affected. In the urgency to inform, the information was aired without full verification,” the station said.
The management disclosed that immediate checks conducted with the police, local government officials and community leaders found no evidence of any attack or casualty.
“Following checks with the Nigeria Police, local government officials and community leaders, we can confirm that everywhere is calm in Imota. There is no bandit attack reported at any public school and no casualties have been recorded,” the statement added.
The station expressed regret over the anxiety the report may have caused residents, parents and students, while reaffirming its commitment to responsible journalism.
“GBEDU 100.1FM regrets any fear, panic or distress this unverified report may have caused. We take full responsibility for broadcasting the information before confirming the facts,” it stated.
Residents have since been urged to disregard the viral claim and continue their normal activities as authorities maintain that the community remains peaceful and secure.
