The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a 38-year-old man, Destiny Ekhorutomuen, for allegedly using social media to spread false and inflammatory content aimed at damaging the police’s reputation and provoking public unrest.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, disclosed in a statement on Friday that the arrest was made by the National Cyber Crime Centre in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State.
“On December 8, 2024, operatives of the Force apprehended Destiny Ekhorutomuen for allegedly creating multiple social media accounts to disseminate false and inciting material designed to provoke the public against the Nigeria Police,” Adejobi said.
The police raised concerns about the deliberate spread of falsehoods, describing it as a serious threat to public trust, societal harmony, and national security.
Adejobi reiterated the Force’s zero-tolerance stance on activities that undermine national stability or tarnish government institutions’ reputations.
He further warned that misusing social media to spread fake news or incite unrest constitutes a criminal offence under Nigerian law and urged Nigerians to act responsibly in sharing information.
“Citizens are reminded to exercise caution and responsibility in their use of information, as the peace and unity of the nation depend on it,” he added.