The Edo State Police Command has dismissed as false and malicious a viral video circulating on social media alleging that three men found in the Ugboha/Amendonkhian bush were brought from Northern Nigeria by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ugboha Division to carry out kidnapping activities in the state.
In a statement, the Command clarified that the three individuals — Shaibu Haruna (30), Nura Bada (25), and Inua Husseini (26) — were apprehended on February 3, 2026, in a bush area near the main road in Ugboha/Amendonkhian. According to the police, the men are registered hunters with the Nigeria Hunters Association who had earlier reported at the Ugboha Division on January 30, 2026, for familiarization before proceeding into the bush for hunting activities.
Acvording ti the Police the individuals identified as: •Shaibu Haruna (m), 30 years – Hausa by tribe,!•Nura Bada (m), 25 years – Hausa by tribe
•Inua Husseini (m), 26 years – Hausa by tribe were apprehended on February 3, 2026, in a bush area not far from the main road in Ugboha/Amendonkhian.
The three individuals are registered hunters with the Nigeria Hunters Association who reported at Ugboha Division on January 30, 2026, for familiarization and obtained the contact number of the Divisional Police Officer before proceeding into the bush for hunting.
During the encounter that led to the viral recording, Shaibu Haruna and his colleagues who only understand Hausa language attempted to explain that they were hunters who had duly informed the Ugboha Division prior to entering the bush. He reportedly presented his identity card as a registered hunter; however, those confronting them refused to examine it. He also attempted to show them the DPO’s phone number, which he had collected upon reporting at the Division days earlier, but this was equally disregarded.
Several members of the Amedokhian community testified that they have known Shaibu Haruna for years as a legitimate hunter whom they have patronized on multiple occasions.
The video was recorded by Oseghale Okoershim (m), 52 years, who alleged that the DPO of Ugboha Division brought the men from the North for kidnapping activities. Findings indicate that this allegation is false and malicious.
During interrogation, Mr. Okoershim made a confessional statement, admitting that he recorded and shared the video. The Command notes that the content of the video was misleading, defamatory and capable of causing public panic.
The Command assures the public that whoever is found culpable at the conclusion of investigations will be arraigned before court in accordance with the law.
The Commissioner of Police CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, reiterates the command’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the protection of all residents. Members of the public are advised to verify information through appropriate authorities and refrain from spreading unverified content capable of inciting panic, ethnic tension, or unrest.
