Edo Police Debunk Kidnap Allegations in Viral Ugboha Video, Say Suspects Are Registered Hunters

The Edo State Police Command has debunked claims circulating in a viral video alleging that three individuals found in the Ugboha/Amendonkhian bush were brought from Northern Nigeria by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ugboha Division to carry out kidnapping activities in the state.

In a statement, the Command said the individuals—Shaibu Haruna, 30; Nura Bada, 25; and Inua Husseini, 26, all of Hausa extraction—were apprehended on February 3, 2026, in a bush near the Ugboha/Amendonkhian axis.
Police investigations revealed that the trio are registered hunters with the Nigeria Hunters Association. According to the Command, they had reported at the Ugboha Division on January 30, 2026, for familiarisation and obtained the contact number of the DPO before proceeding into the bush for hunting activities.

The Command explained that during the encounter captured in the viral video, the hunters, who reportedly speak only Hausa, attempted to explain their mission and presented identification showing they were duly registered. They also tried to provide the DPO’s contact details, but those confronting them allegedly refused to verify the information.

Several members of the Amendonkhian community also testified that they have known Shaibu Haruna for years as a legitimate hunter whom they have patronised on multiple occasions.

Police further disclosed that the video was recorded by one Oseghale Okoershim, 52, who accused the DPO of bringing the men from the North to engage in kidnapping. The Command described the allegation as false and malicious.
During interrogation, Okoershim reportedly admitted to recording and circulating the video.

The Police said the content was misleading, defamatory, and capable of causing public panic and ethnic tension.
The Command assured that anyone found culpable at the end of investigations would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, reiterated the Command’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the protection of all residents.

He urged members of the public to verify information through appropriate authorities and avoid spreading unverified content capable of inciting fear, ethnic division, or unrest.