Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has dismissed reports of an alleged bandit invasion in parts of the state, assuring residents that security agencies remain on alert and that there is no confirmed security breach warranting panic.

The governor’s reassurance followed widespread anxiety triggered by rumours circulating in several communities and schools, leading to disruptions in academic activities as parents, teachers and students reacted to fears of a possible attack.

In a statement issued through his spokesperson, Adeleke urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information, stressing that security agencies had intensified surveillance and preventive measures across the state. The governor said intelligence and security operatives were actively monitoring border communities and other vulnerable areas to prevent any infiltration by criminal elements.

The development comes amid heightened security concerns in parts of southwestern Nigeria following recent incidents of kidnapping and banditry in neighbouring states. Osun authorities have repeatedly maintained that security agencies, local vigilante groups and the state’s Amotekun Corps are working together to safeguard communities.

Adeleke’s administration has previously warned about the risk of criminal elements attempting to move into Osun from neighbouring states and has called for stronger collaboration among security agencies to prevent such threats.

The governor’s appeal mirrors recent responses by authorities in neighbouring Oyo State, where police dismissed reports of a purported bandit attack that sparked panic in schools and communities before investigations revealed no security breach.

While some schools reportedly experienced temporary disruptions as rumours spread, there was no official confirmation of a bandit invasion or attack in Osun State at the time of reporting. State authorities reiterated that residents should rely on information from credible sources and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.

Officials said security operations remain ongoing across the state and urged citizens to remain vigilant while going about their normal activities.