By: Oluwatoyin Hawal Momolosho
Claim:
A viral video circulating on social media, particularly Twitter, alleges that a helicopter seen landing at Obajana axis of Kogi State was delivering food supplies to armed bandits. Many users interpreted the footage as evidence of covert government support for criminal elements.
Verdict:
False!
The Nigeria Police Force has officially debunked the claim, clarifying that the helicopter operation was part of a coordinated security mission against banditry and kidnapping in the region.
Verification:
The video shows a police helicopter landing and taking off in a bushy terrain, with several armed individuals nearby. Social media narratives alleged it was a covert supply drop for kidnappers or bandits. However, this interpretation lacks credible evidence and has been discredited by authoritative sources.
In a press release dated 13th May 2025, the Nigeria Police Force explained that the operation took place on Saturday, 10th May 2025, in the Obajana axis of Kogi State. The deployment was part of an anti-banditry initiative involving joint security forces, local vigilantes, and hunters. The helicopter was used for aerial surveillance and tactical support—a standard procedure in such security missions.
The statement, signed by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, emphasizes that the narrative suggesting the helicopter was supplying bandits is “misleading and false”. The Police called on the public to rely on verified channels for information concerning national security.
Conclusion:
There is no credible evidence to support the viral claim. The helicopter in the video was part of a legitimate security operation. The narrative that it was supplying bandits is a deliberate misinformation attempt. Social media users are advised to fact-check such sensitive claims before amplifying them.
