In a statement, the Nigerian Police have contested the prevailing narrative surrounding the surge in killings and abductions in the country, asserting that the situation has been exaggerated.
During an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the Force spokesperson, Adejobi, sought to provide a nuanced perspective on the security challenges plaguing the nation. Specifically addressing the recent incidents in Ekiti State, where monarchs were killed, and schoolchildren and teachers were abducted, Adejobi maintained that these isolated cases do not accurately represent the overall security landscape of the state.
Contrary to widespread perceptions, Adejobi argued that Ekiti State has not experienced a pervasive insecurity issue and emphasized that the topography, characterized by rocky terrain, has played a significant role in the recent kidnappings. He remarked, “It is just an isolated case, and it is not as if it happens daily.”
Expanding on this viewpoint, Adejobi highlighted the topographical challenges in other regions as well, citing Bwari and Lagos. He underscored the importance of considering the landscape when evaluating incidents, noting the prevalence of waterways leading from Lagos to Delta, Bayelsa, and Port Harcourt.
Addressing concerns about the rising incidents of kidnapping, particularly in Ekiti, Adejobi urged the public to distinguish between social media narratives and the reality on the ground. He asserted that the reported cases are often isolated incidents, which, when sensationalized on social media, create a perception that diverges from the actual situation.
The spokesperson reassured the public that Ekiti and the southwestern part of the country, in general, do not face a surge in kidnapping incidents. Despite recent tragic events, such as the killing of two monarchs in Ekiti, Adejobi emphasized the sporadic nature of such occurrences and cautioned against misconceptions fueled by social media portrayals.
As Nigeria grapples with security challenges, the police’s attempt to provide context and dispel sensationalism underscores the complex nature of the issues at hand, urging a more measured understanding of the security situation in different regions of the country.