A 38-year-old man, Destiny Ekhorutomuen, has been arrested for allegedly creating fake social media pages to spread false information about the Nigeria Police Force.
This is contained in a Friday statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
Adejobi said Ekhorutomuen was arrested by police operatives in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State on Wednesday, December 8.
According to the police spokesman, the arrest was part of efforts to curb the spread of fake news, disinformation, and incitement capable of widening the trust gap between the police and members of the public who are critical stakeholders in national peace and security.
He said, “The suspect allegedly created and operated multiple social media accounts to disseminate false and inciting content aimed at provoking the public against the Nigeria Police.
“The Nigeria Police reiterates its zero tolerance for acts aimed at threatening the nation’s stability or tarnishing the reputation of the police and other government institutions.
“This deliberate spread of falsehoods erodes public trust, undermines societal cohesion, and poses significant risks to national security.
“In this regard, the Nigeria Police Force strongly warns against the misuse of social media and other communication platforms to propagate fake news or incite disorder.
“Such acts are criminal and punishable under the law. Citizens are urged to exercise caution and responsibility in their use of information, as the collective peace and unity of the nation depend on it.”
The police reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to upholding law and order.
The force said it would continue to identify and prosecute individuals or groups engaging in activities that threaten Nigeria’s peace and security.
