Edo Police Plan to Charge Individual Over False Kidnapping Accusations Against DPO

The Edo State Police Command has announced its decision to prosecute Oseghale Okoershim, a 52-year-old man, for reportedly making untrue allegations against the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Ugboha Division.

Okoershim had claimed in a widely circulated video that the DPO was complicit with kidnappers disguised as hunters, who he alleged were abducting residents in Ugboha and nearby communities. His accusations came after several individuals were apprehended in a forest area situated between Ugboha and Amedokhian.

According to police spokesperson Eno Ikoedem, those detained—Shaibu Haruna, Nura Bada, and Inua Husseini—are registered members of the Nigeria Hunters Association and had notified the Ugboha Division about their hunting activities prior to entering the forest on January 30, 2026.

Ikoedem asserted that the accused individuals were legitimate hunters, refuting Okoershim's claims as unfounded and malicious.

“During the encounter that led to the viral video, Shaibu Haruna and his companions, primarily Hausa speakers, tried to explain that they were hunters and had formally communicated their plans to the Ugboha Division before proceeding into the bush,” she stated.

“Shaibu presented his identification as a registered hunter; however, those confronting them chose not to accept it. He also attempted to showcase the DPO’s contact number, which he had obtained while reporting to the Division days before, but this was also disregarded.

“Many members of the Amedokhian community have attested to Shaibu Haruna's reputation as a recognized hunter, having engaged his services multiple times.

“The video was recorded by Oseghale Okoershim, who accused the DPO of bringing in the men from northern Nigeria for kidnapping schemes. Investigations have confirmed that this allegation is untrue and malicious.

“During his questioning, Mr. Okoershim confessed to recording and distributing the video. The Command emphasizes that the video's content was deceiving, defamatory, and had the potential to incite public unrest.

“The police assure the populace that anyone found guilty at the end of the investigation will face legal action. Citizens are encouraged to verify information with relevant authorities and to avoid sharing unconfirmed claims that could instigate panic or ethnic conflict.”

The police have confirmed that inquiries are still underway.