Police reject viral kidnap claim over late Lagos DCP
June 16, 2026 8:40 pm
The Police Command in Lagos State has dismissed reports claiming late Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP Khan Salihu, was kidnapped before his death.
The command described the report as false, misleading and fabricated, urging the public to disregard the claim.
Police spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, made the clarification in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lagos.
She said Salihu only complained briefly of feeling unwell before being rushed to hospital for urgent medical attention.
According to her, doctors later confirmed the senior officer dead after efforts to save his life.
“For the avoidance of doubt, DCP Salihu was never kidnapped at any time prior to his demise.
“The report is entirely false, misleading and a complete fabrication with no basis in fact whatsoever,” Adebisi said.
She stressed that the late officer was never abducted or involved in any criminal incident before his death.
“At no time was the deceased officer abducted or linked to any incident involving criminal activity,” she added.
The police spokesperson expressed concern over the publication of what she called an unverified story by a recognised media platform.
She said the report was released without contacting relevant authorities for confirmation before publication.
Adebisi noted that the claim caused unnecessary distress to the late officer’s family, friends and colleagues.
She described the report as insensitive, particularly while the police community mourned a dedicated officer.
The spokesperson said Salihu served the nation with distinction and remained committed to his professional duties.
She demanded the immediate withdrawal of the report and called for a public correction.
Adebisi also requested an apology from the media organisation involved, stressing the need for accountability.
She urged members of the public to rely only on verified information from official police channels.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to fighting misinformation and providing accurate information to Nigerians.
(NAN)
Tosin Oyediran is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over eight years of professional experience in reporting and storytelling. He is known for conducting incisive interviews and producing compelling human-angle stories that bring clarity and depth to the news. Tosin covers a broad range of beats including politics, health, advocacy, sports, and entertainment, with a strong focus on people-centred reporting. His work reflects firsthand newsroom experience, editorial insight, and a commitment to accurate, engaging, and trustworthy journalism.
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