By Bukola Olamona

The Ondo State Police Command has dismissed as misleading and inaccurate a report published by Sahara Reporters on 17 April 2025.

The report had falsely alleged that the convoy of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was in the state on an official visit to distribute empowerment kits and equipment was responsible for the tragic death of a young girl in Oba Ile.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, and made available to Weekend Hope, the Command described the allegation as “wholly untrue, irresponsible, and entirely without foundation.”

According to the statement, eyewitness accounts and preliminary investigations conducted by the Ondo State Police Command have confirmed that the unfortunate incident was caused by a hit-and-run involving an unregistered white Lexus vehicle.

“This vehicle is in no way connected to the First Lady’s convoy.

“A witness at the scene immediately pursued the fleeing vehicle on a motorcycle following the incident, which occurred in the Oba Ile area of Akure. These accounts have been corroborated by multiple bystanders as well as the child’s parents,” the statement read.

Furthermore, the police said Sahara Reporters had incorrectly stated that the deceased child was nine years old, while her parents confirmed she was in fact seven, a further indication of the publication’s false reporting.

The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, Wilfred Adetokunbo, has personally visited the bereaved family and assured them of a thorough and transparent investigation.

The statement reiterated that the First Lady’s convoy was not involved in the tragic event.

“Equally troubling is Sahara Reporters’ erroneous coverage of a kidnapping it claimed took place in Ondo State, meanwhile verified reports confirm that the incident actually occurred in Ugbogui, a community near Ohosu in neighbouring Edo State, as confirmed by local security agencies.

“This pattern of misreporting and sensationalism by Sahara Reporters is not only unprofessional but deeply damaging. Such fabrications cause needless panic, sow confusion, and undermine public trust in credible information sources,” it stated.

The Command has therefore called on Sahara Reporters to issue an immediate retraction and a public apology to those affected by the false claims, reaffirming its commitment to truth, justice, and the safety of all residents within the state.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and urge members of the public to assist us in bringing the hit-and-run driver to justice. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to come forward or report to the nearest police station or security post,” the statement added.