Police Arraign Content Creator “Madam Oil Rice” Over Alleged False Kidnap Claim in Edo

Police Arraign Content Creator “Madam Oil Rice” Over Alleged False Kidnap Claim in Edo

The Edo State Police Command has formally arraigned well-known content creator Moses Yamu Omoyemen, popularly called “Madam Oil Rice,” for allegedly orchestrating a false kidnap alarm that triggered panic across social media and parts of Benin City.

According to officials, Yamu had been declared missing by associates after a distress message surfaced online claiming she had been abducted. The report went viral, prompting security agencies and concerned Nigerians to launch frantic efforts to locate her. However, police investigations revealed that the claim was false and staged, reportedly as part of a social media stunt.

During her arraignment at the Magistrate Court in Benin City, prosecutors accused the content creator of publishing false information, causing public disturbance, and misusing police resources. The charge sheet noted that the false alarm diverted personnel and emergency attention at a time the state is battling real cases requiring urgent response.

Courtroom sources say Yamu appeared visibly uneasy as the charges were read. Her counsel requested bail, arguing that she had no criminal record and did not intend to harm the public. The magistrate, however, reserved a ruling on the bail application and adjourned proceedings to a later date.

Meanwhile, the Edo Police Command has issued a stern warning to influencers, skit makers and online personalities, stressing that fake crime related content will not be tolerated. The command emphasized that security agencies cannot afford to chase false alarms engineered for engagement, especially in a period marked by rising security concerns.

Residents and fans have expressed mixed reactions some condemning the act as irresponsible, while others call for leniency, describing it as a misjudged attempt at content creation.