Fake Bandit Invasion Rumour Sparks Concern as Ese-Odo Chairman Reassures Residents
Molos Declares Ese-Odo Safe, Warns Against Spreading Unverified Security Reports
The Executive Chairman of Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, High Chief Caleb Ebimobowei Molos, has moved swiftly to calm growing concerns among residents following the circulation of false reports alleging the presence of bandits and armed men in Amapere and other communities within the council area.
In a firm and reassuring statement released on Tuesday, the council chairman dismissed the reports as entirely fabricated, urging residents to disregard the misinformation and continue their daily activities without fear or apprehension.
The clarification became necessary after rumours circulated across various social media platforms and WhatsApp groups claiming that armed men had infiltrated Amapere town, creating anxiety among residents and raising concerns about the security situation in the riverine local government area.
Addressing the development, High Chief Molos categorically stated that there was no invasion by bandits or any armed group in Amapere, Agadagba Obon, or any other community within Ese-Odo Local Government Area.
According to him, the reports were not only false but capable of causing unnecessary panic, disrupting economic activities, and creating avoidable tension among citizens who have continued to enjoy relative peace within the area.
“The rumour that bandits were sighted at Amapere is completely false and should be disregarded. Ese-Odo remains peaceful and secure,” the chairman declared.
His intervention has been widely viewed as a timely response aimed at preventing the spread of fear and maintaining public confidence in the security architecture of the local government.
Commitment to Peace and Security
High Chief Molos emphasized that Ese-Odo Local Government remains one of the peaceful areas in Ondo State, noting that the council administration has consistently partnered with security agencies, traditional institutions, youth bodies, community leaders, and other stakeholders to preserve peace and stability.
He reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that security remains a top priority of the local government.
According to him, the council will continue to strengthen collaboration with relevant security formations to ensure that residents live and conduct their businesses in a safe and conducive environment.
“Ese-Odo Local Government Area is known for peace and unity, and we will continue to work with security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and youths to sustain that peace. There is no cause for alarm,” he assured.
Dangers of Fake News
The chairman also expressed concern over the growing trend of misinformation on social media, describing the false security alert as the handiwork of individuals who do not have the interest of the local government at heart.
Observers note that in recent years, fake security reports circulated online have often triggered unnecessary panic, disrupted commercial activities, and created confusion among residents in several parts of the country.
High Chief Molos therefore appealed to residents to exercise caution before sharing information, particularly security-related reports, on digital platforms.
He urged citizens to verify information through official channels and credible authorities before forwarding messages capable of causing fear and public anxiety.
Residents Advised to Report Suspicious Activities
While dismissing the rumour, the council chairman encouraged vigilance among residents, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility.
He advised members of the public to promptly report any suspicious movement, unusual activity, or security concern to the nearest security formation or local government authority rather than relying on rumours or social media speculation.
Community stakeholders have commended the chairman’s prompt response, describing it as a necessary step toward preserving public confidence and preventing the spread of false narratives capable of undermining peace within the area.
As of the time of filing this report, normal activities reportedly continued across communities in Ese-Odo Local Government Area, with residents carrying on with their businesses and daily engagements peacefully.
A Call for Responsible Information Sharing
The incident serves as yet another reminder of the importance of responsible communication in an era where unverified information can travel rapidly across digital platforms. Security experts have repeatedly emphasized that misinformation can sometimes inflict damage comparable to actual security threats by creating fear, distrust, and social disruption.
For the people of Ese-Odo, the message from the council leadership remains clear: the local government is peaceful, secure, and under constant surveillance by relevant authorities, and residents should remain calm while rejecting rumours capable of undermining communal harmony.
Source: Statement by Denis Pounah, Special Adviser (Media) to the Executive Chairman of Ese-Odo LGA, dated June 17, 2026.
Global Egberi Media International Ltd: https://globalegberi.com.ng
Author: Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
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