Ondo Police Refute Curfew Rumor, Warn Against Fake News

Context Rumors of a 9 p.m. curfew in Akure circulated on social media this week, prompting anxiety among residents. The claim appeared alongside reports of recent kidnappings, armed robberies and cult‑related violence that have strained security in the southwest Nigerian state.

Key Facts The Ondo State Police Command issued a statement on Sunday, signed by Deputy Superintendent of Police Abayomi Jimoh, stating categorically that no curfew has been imposed and no security incident justifies panic. The command urged citizens to ignore the rumor and continue daily activities, relying only on verified sources.

Police also warned that individuals or groups disseminating fake news will be stopped, investigated and brought to court. The statement emphasized that misinformation undermines public peace and security, and that offenders will face legal consequences.

Recent months have seen a spike in security challenges across Ondo, including sporadic kidnappings, armed robberies and clashes linked to criminal cults. These incidents have heightened public sensitivity to any perceived threat, making the curfew rumor particularly disruptive.

What It Means The police denial removes immediate fear of movement restrictions, but it also signals a tougher stance on information warfare. By threatening prosecution, authorities aim to curb panic‑inducing rumors that could exacerbate an already volatile security environment.

Residents are advised to verify alerts through official police channels and to report any suspicious activity. As law enforcement continues to address kidnapping and armed robbery cases, monitoring of social media for false claims is likely to increase.

Looking ahead, watch for official updates on security operations in Ondo and any legal actions taken against those who spread unverified information.