SA Security, Bibire Warns Against False Security Reports, Urges Residents To Verify Information Before Raising Alarm

The Special Adviser on Security to Governor Seyi Makinde has urged residents to exercise caution and vigilance when reporting security related concerns, stressing the need for accurate information to support security operations and prevent unnecessary panic within the polity.

He stated this in a statement he signed and made available to Polity Reporters on Wednesday.

Polity Reporters reports that his position is coming on the heels of yesterday’s panic recorded in parts of Ogbomoso, where students, parents, and residents were gripped by fear following unconfirmed reports of the presence of bandits, which security operatives later dismissed as untrue.

The Special Adviser on Security stated that while citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, information relayed with security agencies or the public must be verified to avoid misinformation capable of disrupting ongoing security efforts.

According to the statement, false reports and unverified claims have the potential to create fear among residents, misdirect security responses, and weaken public confidence.

The statement also drew attention to what it described as the danger of “false negatives,” where actual threats or suspicious movements are ignored or left unreported, which can delay intervention by relevant authorities.

“The Office of the Special Adviser on Security wishes to draw the attention of the public to the need for responsible reporting of security related concerns in line with the principle that citizens should see something and say something.

“Members of the public are urged to ensure that any information they communicate is accurate and verified, to avoid misinformation that may affect ongoing security operations and the confidence of the people,” the statement read.

This was as he maintained that ignoring genuine threats can be as harmful as spreading false information, noting that both situations could undermine public safety and security management.

“The public is also informed about the danger of false negatives, where actual threats or suspicious activities are ignored or not reported, which can slow down timely response from security agencies.

“At the same time, false reports or unverified claims can cause panic, mislead security efforts, and create unnecessary unease within the polity,” the statement added.

The security expert therefore advised residents to remain observant, verify information where possible, and channel credible reports through appropriate authorities in the interest of public safety.

“Citizens are therefore advised to remain alert, observe carefully, and report only what they know or have reasonably confirmed to the appropriate authorities so as to prevent avoidable security incidents,” the statement further read.

Reiterating that security remains a collective duty, he said cooperation between residents and security agencies remains important in sustaining peace and ensuring timely response to emerging concerns.

“Security is a collective duty, and every credible information provided to the relevant authorities helps to strengthen safety and peace within the polity,” the statement concluded.

ADVERTISE WITH US

Do you want to reach your targeted audience and expand your brand’s visibility?

Advertise with Polity Reporters to place your “message” before the right audience.

For advertising enquiries, reach us through:

Email: bandcommunications001@gmail.com

Facebook: Polity Reporters

WhatsApp: 07043810558