Kunle Adelabu
-Radio station apologises for false report
The radio station that reported the alleged beheading of two female students in Imota Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Ikorodu Division area of Lagos State, Southwest, Nigeria, has apologized for the unverified report.
The news report has gone viral and caused panic and fear in Imota and Ikorodu Division.
In a statement by the council chairman, Hon. Benson Sunday Ayodele, before the apology and retraction by the radio station, Imota council authority described the news as false, misleading and entirely unfounded.
“The attention of the Imota Local Council Development Area, under the leadership of Hon. Benson Sunday Ayodele, has been drawn to a viral video being circulated by GBEDU 100.1FM, and across some social media platforms, alleging that two girls were killed at a primary school in Imota LCDA.
“We wish to state categorically that the information contained in the video is false, misleading, and entirely unfounded. There is no verified report, official record, or credible security information confirming the alleged incident within Imota LCDA”.
While condemning the report, the council boss urged residents to disregard it and also enjoined them to desist from sharing the unverified reports.
“The spread of unverified and sensational content has the potential to create unnecessary panic, tarnish the image of our peaceful communities, and misinform residents. Similar cases of viral videos and reports have been debunked by security authorities across Nigeria, after investigations revealed that the claims were either recycled, taken out of context, or completely fabricated.
“We, therefore, urge residents and members of the public to disregard the said video and refrain from sharing unverified information capable of causing fear or public disorder. Citizens are encouraged to rely on credible sources and official security agencies for accurate information regarding public safety matters.
“The safety and security of all residents remain a top priority of our administration, and we encourage everyone to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding while continuing their daily activities without fear”.
Hon. Benson urged journalists and social media users to always exercise restraints and verify information before circulation.
“We also call on media organizations and social media users to uphold the principles of responsible journalism and information sharing by verifying facts before publication or circulation.
“Together, let us promote truth, peace, and responsible communication in our community”.
Gbedu FM, apologizing for the false report, said that the issue was brought to the attention of the station during a phone -in-programme, alleging that bandits stormed a school to perpetrate the act.
It added that the report was broadcast in the urgency to inform the public about it.
The station said that it regretted the fear, panic and distress that the unverified information may have caused parents , students and the general residents.
