By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Olorogun Hon. Innocent Esewezie, has reassured residents of Ibusa that reports alleging the invasion of schools by bandits in the community are entirely false and should be disregarded.
Hon. Esewezie gave the assurance during a public sensitization campaign carried out across strategic locations in Ibusa through Ibusa FM, following the circulation of rumours that created anxiety among parents and guardians, leading many to withdraw their children from school.
Hon. Esewezie described the reports as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic, stressing that security agencies had investigated the claims and found no evidence to support them.
According to him, the security situation in Ibusa remains stable, while the existing security framework in Oshimili North Local Government continues to function effectively in safeguarding lives and property.
“We have engaged with the relevant security agencies, and there is no evidence of any bandit invasion of schools in Ibusa. I urge our people to remain calm, go about their legitimate businesses, and allow our children to return to their classrooms. We must all cultivate the habit of verifying information before sharing it,” he stated.
The council boss urged parents and guardians to send their children back to school without delay, emphasizing that education should not suffer because of unverified information circulated through social media and informal channels.
He also appealed to residents to exercise caution in sharing information, noting that fake news has the potential to disrupt academic activities, create fear among citizens, and negatively affect social and economic life within the community.
Hon. Esewezie reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across Oshimili North, adding that the local government would continue to collaborate with security agencies, community vigilante groups, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
The chairman assured the people that his administration remains vigilant and proactive in addressing security concerns while encouraging citizens to rely only on verified information from credible sources.