The Nigeria Police has responded to social media rumors claiming that a police helicopter was used to deliver food to armed bandits in Kogi State, calling the reports both “false” and “misleading.”
In an official statement issued on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Police Force clarified that the circulating video, which fueled the claims, actually captured an ongoing security operation, not a supply mission to criminals.
“Contrary to the misleading and false narrative suggesting that the aircraft was used to deliver food items to bandits, the Force categorically states that the video captures a legitimate security operation,” the statement read.
According to the police, the video in question shows part of a larger operation carried out by a team made up of police officers, local vigilantes, and hunters. This joint task force had been deployed to the Obajana area in Kogi on Saturday, May 10, to deal with rising threats from armed criminal groups.
The use of the helicopter, the police said, was not unusual. It was brought in to offer aerial support to the team on the ground. Adejobi noted that the helicopter’s role was to assist in surveillance and tactical movement, as part of efforts to secure the area from bandit activity.
Adejobi also urged citizens to be careful about spreading unconfirmed stories, especially those that can weaken public confidence in the security agencies. He noted that sharing such false reports without proper verification only distracts from real efforts being made to fight crime.
“The Force hereby urges members of the public to disregard the unfounded and mischievous claims surrounding the viral video. Citizens are encouraged to rely solely on official police communication channels for accurate and verified information regarding security activities,” the statement added.
The Police Force noted its continued commitment to national security and promised to keep working with other agencies and local groups to make every part of the country safe.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians and will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to enhance public safety and national security,” Adejobi concluded.
