Subheading: Tailor confesses to using local herder in staged clip to attract online attention
By Staff Reporter
The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a resident of Sokoto Road, Atan-Ota, identified as Qawiyu Oloyede, over a viral video falsely depicting a bandit attack, an incident authorities say was deliberately staged to mislead the public and generate social media traction.
The video, which circulated widely on Sunday, sparked fear among residents and online users, as it appeared to show a security threat in the area. However, police investigations revealed that the incident was entirely fabricated.
According to police sources, Oloyede, a tailor by profession, confessed during interrogation that he orchestrated the video to gain followers and visibility on social media platforms. He admitted that the individual portrayed as a Fulani bandit in the clip was, in reality, a local herder who grazes cattle behind his shop and had no intention of participating in the staged act.
“I created the fake bandit attack and posted it online to gain followers,” the suspect reportedly told investigators. He further claimed that he could not read or write and relied on his apprentice to compose and post the accompanying message that amplified the false narrative.
Oloyede also disclosed that the viral clip was not an isolated incident, admitting to producing and sharing at least one other similar video earlier in the week.
Confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, stated that the suspect has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and possible prosecution.
“The suspect is currently with the SCID,” Babaseyi said, adding that the command is taking the matter seriously due to its implications for public safety.
Legal and Security Implications
Legal experts note that the suspect’s actions may constitute offences under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition Prevention etc.) Act 2015, particularly provisions relating to the intentional dissemination of false information capable of causing fear, panic, or public disturbance.
If convicted, Oloyede could face a prison term of up to three years, a substantial fine, or both. Additional charges under Nigeria’s criminal laws relating to public mischief and incitement may also be considered, depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Growing Concern Over Fake Security Alerts
Security analysts warn that the spread of fabricated security threats, especially in a country grappling with real incidents of banditry and insurgency, poses a significant risk. False alarms not only create unnecessary panic but can also divert the attention and resources of security agencies from genuine threats.
The police have reiterated their call for responsible use of social media, urging citizens to verify information before sharing and to refrain from actions that could endanger public peace.
Community Leaders voice
Community leaders in Atan give accolades to CSP Oniyinku, DPO Atan Division and Area Commander Agbara Area Command under the leadership of ACP Tanaruno Folashade Anthonia for their doggedness in policing the industrial hub of Nigeria with zeal to maintain peace and harmony across the area.
The arrest serves as a cautionary example of the consequences of misinformation in the digital age, as authorities continue to clamp down on the misuse of online platforms to spread fear and falsehood.
