*PRESS RELEASE*
NOA DISPELS RUMOURS OF BANDITS’ ATTACKS AND KIDNAPPING IN AKURE SCHOOLS, URGES PARENTS TO REMAIN CALM
The Ondo State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on parents, guardians, school authorities, and members of the public to disregard the unfounded rumours circulating within Akure metropolis and its environs alleging bandits’ attacks and kidnapping incidents in some schools.
The State Director of the Agency, Mrs. Olufunke Moradeyo Adekunle, in a Press Release issued from her office through the PRO of the Agency Ralph Oguntibeju, described the reports as false, misleading, and capable of creating unnecessary fear and panic among residents.
According to her, findings from relevant security agencies and the Ondo State Government have confirmed that there is no record, report, or incident of kidnapping or bandit attack in any primary, secondary, or tertiary institution within Akure metropolis. Schools across the state capital remain safe, open, and are carrying out their academic activities without disruption.
Mrs. Adekunle reassured the public that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration places a high premium on the safety and security of learners, teachers, and all residents of the state. She noted that the state government has directed all security agencies, including the Police, Amotekun Corps, and the Department of State Services (DSS), to remain vigilant and continue monitoring all school environments.
As part of efforts to reassure stakeholders and boost public confidence, the management of the National Orientation Agency visited several schools in Akure, including St. Dominic Secondary School, St. Louis Girls’ Grammar School, and other educational institutions.
During the visits, the Management interacted with Principal, students, teachers, and school administrators, assuring them of government’s commitment to their safety. The COMO in charge of Akure South LG Mr Babatunde Akinde particularly encouraged students currently writing the West African Examination Council (WAEC), especially those sitting for Mathematics and other core subjects, to remain focused on their examinations and not be distracted by false security alerts.
The NOA Boss emphasized that security agencies have verified all school environments and confirmed that normalcy prevails across Akure and its environs.
Mrs Adekunle therefore urged parents and guardians not to panic or withdraw their children from school based on unverified information. She also appealed to residents to refrain from spreading rumours capable of causing anxiety and disrupting public peace.
“The safety of our children remains a collective responsibility. We encourage members of the public with genuine security concerns to report promptly to the nearest Police Station, Amotekun Corps office, or other relevant security agencies,” she stated.
The National Orientation Agency remains committed to promoting responsible information sharing, public enlightenment, and continuous collaboration with government and security stakeholders in safeguarding lives and property across Ondo State.
Signed
Ralph Oguntibeju
Head, Media and Communication
For State Director
