The Ondo State Government on Thursday moved to douse what it described as the growing trend of misinformation and fake news being orchestrated by certain elements via social media and other platforms to cause panic and disrupt public peace.
The government said the deliberate dissemination of false information not only triggers unnecessary anxiety among residents but also distracts security agencies from discharging their primary duty of protecting lives and property.
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Emmanuel Ajanaku, in a statement, called on residents to desist from spreading unverified information capable of creating fear, panic and undermining the existing peaceful atmosphere across the state.
He said the appeal followed the circulation of false reports on social media and other messaging platforms alleging incidents of kidnapping in schools and the presence of bandits within Akure metropolis.
Ajanaku reiterated that such reports are entirely false and had been categorically debunked by both the government and the state Police Command following comprehensive security assessments and intelligence gathering.
He urged the people to shun such fake news and support the reinvigorated efforts to boost security in the state.
According to the commissioner, the rising spread of misinformation and fake news poses significant threats to public safety, social harmony and public confidence.
“The deliberate dissemination of false information not only causes unnecessary anxiety among residents but also distracts security agencies from their core responsibilities of protecting lives and property.
“The administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa remains committed to the safety and security of all residents and commends the Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies for their vigilance, professionalism, and sustained efforts in maintaining peace and security across the state,” he said.
Ajanaku urged citizens to obtain information only from official government channels, accredited media organisations and verified social media platforms, to verify the authenticity of information before sharing it, and to refrain from forwarding reports capable of causing public alarm without credible evidence.
He also asked the people to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies by promptly reporting any suspicious movements, criminal activities or security concerns through the appropriate channels.
“Security remains a collective responsibility, and the cooperation of all residents is essential to sustaining the peace, stability, and development of Ondo State,” he said.
