NSCDC urges Nigerians to verify security-related posts before sharing
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has warned that false videos and unverified claims circulated online can intensify fear, provoke attacks and worsen insecurity. The warning was issued in Abuja during a Nigerian Institute of Public Relations roadshow linked to preparations for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has urged Nigerians to verify information before sharing it, warning that misinformation and fabricated videos could worsen insecurity and provoke attacks on innocent people. Dr Olusola Odumosu, commandant of the NSCDC’s Federal Capital Territory Command, issued the warning during a nationwide roadshow organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in Abuja. The event was held ahead of the 2026 World Public Relations Forum.
According to a statement issued by Stanley Ogadigo, chairman of the NIPR’s FCT chapter, Odumosu said unverified information circulated particularly through social media could create panic, increase political tension and encourage criminal activity. He said old videos were sometimes presented as evidence of current events, followed by instructions that could cause people to avoid particular locations or react to alleged threats. Many people, he added, shared such material without checking whether it was authentic or current.
Odumosu said the resulting panic and confusion had, in some cases, contributed to attacks on innocent citizens. He called on Nigerians, especially young people who are active on social media, to communicate responsibly and avoid material capable of encouraging violence, banditry or kidnapping. Suleiman Haruna, chairman of the forum’s national planning committee, also called for responsible use of social media amid the growing influence of artificial intelligence.
He said the forum’s theme, “Responsible Communications: Voice of the World”, reflected concerns about information integrity and misuse of communication platforms. Ogadigo described Nigeria’s hosting of the forum as an opportunity to improve the country’s international reputation. Organisers said the event is expected to attract about 3,000 delegates from 126 member countries of the Global Alliance and is being organised with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation and the NIPR.
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