By Gloria Drealomalicha
The Ondo State Police Command has launched an investigation into a false kidnapping allegation that resulted in the violent assault of an innocent commercial motorcyclist in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, 4 June 2026, when a young woman identified as Abigael Bright allegedly accused a motorcyclist, Rasheed Awojobi, of attempting to kidnap her while conveying her from Ogo Oluwa Street to the Idi Mango area of Ore.
According to the police, the allegation quickly spread through the community, attracting the attention of residents and passers-by. Before security operatives could intervene, an angry mob reportedly descended on Awojobi, leaving him with visible injuries to his face and other parts of his body.
Police officers later arrived at the scene, rescued the motorcyclist and restored calm.
Preliminary investigations by the command have reportedly found no evidence to support the kidnapping allegation. Investigators further discovered that the claim was allegedly circulated on social media through the suspect’s WhatsApp status, escalating fear and tension among residents.
The suspect has since been taken into custody and is assisting police with ongoing investigations. Meanwhile, the injured motorcyclist received medical attention following the attack.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Felix Ohagwu, expressed concern over what he described as the growing trend of false reports and the reckless dissemination of unverified information capable of causing public panic.
He warned that allegations involving serious crimes such as kidnapping could easily provoke violent reactions, place innocent lives at risk and undermine confidence in lawful procedures.
Ohagwu strongly condemned the mob attack on the motorcyclist, stressing that no individual should be punished based solely on suspicion or unverified accusations.
He described jungle justice as a criminal act that often leads to human rights violations, wrongful punishment and, in some cases, the loss of innocent lives.
The police commissioner urged residents to report suspicions and complaints through appropriate law enforcement channels rather than resorting to self-help or mob action.
He also warned that anyone found spreading false information capable of inciting public disorder, or participating in mob violence, would face legal consequences.
Reaffirming the command’s commitment to professional and intelligence-led policing, Ohagwu called on members of the public to verify information before sharing it, particularly on social media platforms, and to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The Ondo State Police Command said it remains committed to maintaining law and order, protecting innocent citizens and ensuring justice is served in all circumstances.
For Rasheed Awojobi, however, the incident serves as a painful reminder of how quickly misinformation can spiral into violence, leaving innocent people to suffer the consequences of unverified claims.
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