The Nasarawa State Police Command has dispelled fears of a possible abduction at St. Peter’s Academy after a false alarm triggered confusion among pupils and circulated widely online.
The incident, initially described on social media as a kidnapping, prompted the swift deployment of security operatives but was later confirmed to be a misunderstanding.
According to police officials, the uproar began when students fled during morning activities after spotting armed hunters in the school environment.
Their reaction, driven by fear of ongoing insecurity in the region, was misinterpreted and quickly amplified by online reports.
Security personnel mobilised to Rukubi in Doma Local Government Area shortly after 10 a.m., following an unverified message claiming two pupils had been seized during sporting activities.
However, officers later determined that no kidnapping occurred.
A senior officer involved in the operation said the situation was exaggerated due to public anxiety: “The children panicked after seeing hunters with Dane guns. People are on edge, so rumours spread faster than facts,” he explained.
Investigators also interviewed the school proprietor, who confirmed that all children were safe and accounted for.
Security teams swept the surrounding area and maintained a visible presence to reassure residents.
Furthermore, police spokesperson Ramhan Nansel urged the public to exercise caution and avoid spreading unverified claims, stressing that false alarms can create unnecessary tension.
“We encourage the public and the media to always verify information. Sensational reports do more harm than good,” he said.
Authorities say surveillance around the community has been intensified to prevent any real threat from emerging, while emphasising that the viral abduction report “holds no truth whatsoever.”