Ondo: Mob Attacks Okada Rider over False Kidnap Allegation
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a woman, identified as Abigael Bright, for allegedly making a false kidnapping allegation that led to the assault of a commercial motorcyclist in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.
According to the police, the incident occurred on Wednesday when Bright reportedly accused a motorcyclist, Rasheed Awojobi, of attempting to kidnap her while conveying her from Ogo Oluwa Street to Idi Mango area in Ore.
The allegation quickly spread across the community, attracting residents and passers-by who descended on the motorcyclist before police officers intervened.
Awojobi reportedly sustained injuries to his face and other parts of his body during the mob attack. He was later rescued by police operatives and taken to a medical facility for treatment.
However, preliminary investigations by the police revealed that the kidnapping claim was false.
The command further disclosed that the suspect allegedly circulated the allegation on her WhatsApp status, a development that heightened tension and created fear among residents.
Police authorities confirmed that Bright is currently in custody and assisting with investigations, adding that appropriate legal action will be taken upon the conclusion of the probe.
Reacting to the incident, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, expressed concern over the increasing spread of false information capable of causing panic and disrupting public peace.
He warned that unverified allegations, particularly those relating to kidnapping and other serious crimes, could trigger violent reactions, endanger innocent lives and undermine public confidence in lawful procedures.
The commissioner also condemned the mob action against the motorcyclist, stressing that no individual should be subjected to punishment based solely on allegations or suspicion.
Describing jungle justice as a criminal act, Ohagwu noted that it often results in human rights violations, miscarriage of justice and avoidable loss of lives.
He urged residents to report suspicious activities to security agencies for proper investigation rather than taking the law into their own hands.
The police boss further warned that individuals involved in mob attacks or the deliberate dissemination of false information capable of inciting public disorder would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Ohagwu reaffirmed the command's commitment to professional and intelligence-driven policing, while assuring residents of the protection of their fundamental rights.
He also advised members of the public to verify information before sharing it, especially on social media platforms, and to promptly report suspected criminal activities to the nearest police station.

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