NIGERIA: Lagos Council, Radio Station Debunk Bandit Attack Report on Imota School

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Imota Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and management of GBEDU 100.1FM have dismissed reports alleging that bandits attacked a primary school in Imota, Lagos, killing two schoolgirls.

The claim, which circulated through a viral video and a radio broadcast on Monday, sparked concern among residents and parents after alleging that armed bandits invaded a public school in the community.

Reacting to the report, the Chairman of Imota LCDA, Benson Ayodele, described the information as false and misleading.

“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,” Ayodele said in a statement.

The council chairman urged residents to disregard the report and avoid sharing unverified information capable of causing panic and disrupting public peace.

“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,” he added.

Meanwhile, GBEDU 100.1FM issued a formal apology after admitting that the information was aired without adequate verification.

According to the station’s Chairman and Programmes Director, Dayo Ajiteru, the report originated from calls received during a live phone-in programme.

“In the urgency to inform, the information was aired without full verification from security agencies and community leaders,” Ajiteru said.

The station explained that subsequent checks with the police, local government officials and community leaders found no evidence to support the claims.

“There is no bandit attack reported at any public school as of this time. No casualties have been recorded,” the statement said.

GBEDU 100.1FM acknowledged the anxiety caused by the report and accepted responsibility for the lapse in professional standards.

“GBEDU 100.1FM regrets any fear, panic, or distress this unverified news may have caused parents, students, and residents. We take full responsibility for broadcasting the information before confirming facts,” the station stated.

Both the council and the radio station reassured residents that Imota remains peaceful and urged the public to rely on verified information from official sources.