The Edo State Police Command has arrested a woman identified as Uzebor Emmanuella, popularly known on social media as “Aza Woman,” over the circulation of false reports alleging the kidnapping of students in parts of Benin City.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Command said the suspect was arrested following investigations into viral social media posts claiming that students at Green Park Academy, Aduwawa, and Western Boys’ College, Ikpoba Hill, had been kidnapped.
According to the police, preliminary findings revealed that the suspect knowingly spread false information alleging that about six people were abducted through various mini transport buses. The posts further claimed that some victims escaped from their captors while others secured their freedom after paying ransom.
The Command stated that the publications caused widespread fear, heightened public anxiety, and had the potential to erode public confidence in the state’s security architecture.
The police stressed that deliberately spreading false information, especially on issues relating to public safety and security, is a serious offence with far-reaching consequences. It noted that such actions could incite panic, disrupt public order, and divert security personnel from responding to genuine emergencies.
“The security of a state should never be jeopardised for views, engagement, online relevance, or any other form of social media gratification,” the statement said.
The Command disclosed that the suspect would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
It also urged members of the public to verify information from credible sources before sharing it and to refrain from using social media platforms to disseminate falsehoods capable of disturbing public peace and order.