Oyo Govt Urges Media Caution Over Kidnap Crisis, Prioritises Safety of Victims

The Oyo State Government has appealed to journalists and media organisations to exercise caution in reporting developments surrounding the ongoing kidnapping crisis, stressing that the safety of the abducted children and teachers remains its foremost priority.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said the government was mindful of the public’s right to information but warned that the disclosure of sensitive details regarding conversations with the kidnappers could jeopardise efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.
According to him, information relating to negotiations with the abductors must be handled discreetly, as inappropriate disclosures could lead to fatalities.
“To us, the safety of our children and teachers is paramount. As you are well aware, disclosure of details of conversations with the kidnappers, if not handled discreetly, may lead to fatalities,” the commissioner stated.
Oyelade acknowledged that it was the responsibility of journalists to keep the public informed but noted that the current security challenge was not an everyday occurrence and required utmost caution.
“As much as it is the right of journalists to know and inform the public accordingly, the current situation is not an everyday challenge and the wrong statement may achieve the very opposite of our objective,” he said.
He added that the Oyo State Government would continue to take every necessary step to safeguard the lives of its citizens and discourage the activities of kidnappers and bandits in the state.
“Until the right time, which will be soon enough, the Oyo State Government prefers to stay on the side of caution and do everything possible to preserve the lives of our citizens and discourage kidnapping and bandits on our soil,” Oyelade said.
The commissioner also reminded residents of emergency contact channels available in the state.
He disclosed that residents could reach the Nigeria Police Control Room through 08081768614 or 07055495413 in cases of emergency.
According to him, residents can also dial 615, the Oyo State Government’s toll-free emergency response line, for prompt assistance.
He noted that the lines are available for reporting crimes, security threats, accidents and other emergencies requiring immediate attention.