Defence Headquarters warns social media influencers against sharing fake military-related content
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Brig-Gen Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, said the viral video was fabricated and digitally manipulated using Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The military said the video falsely portrayed the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede and, in some instances, attempted to misrepresent him.
The DHQ stated: “The Defence Headquarters categorically states that the video is false, misleading and does not represent any official communication, position, statement or engagement involving either the Chief of Defence Staff or the Chief of Army Staff.
“The content is a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and create confusion regarding the activities and leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“Members of the public are advised to disregard the video in its entirety, as it did not originate from any official military source. Assessment of the video indicate that the content bears clear signs of digital manipulation premised on Artificial Intelligence and should not be relied upon in any way.”
The Defence Headquarters expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of fabricating content involving senior military officers.
The military said: “The Defence Headquarters remains concerned about the growing trend of individuals exploiting digital technologies and social media platforms to fabricate content involving senior military officers.
“Such actions not only constitute misinformation but also have the potential to undermine public confidence and ultimately compromise national security efforts.”
The DHQ urged influencers, bloggers, online commentators and other social media users to refrain from amplifying unverified content.
“The quest for online visibility and engagement must not come at the expense of truth, national security and responsible journalism,” the statement reads.
The military also advised journalists and members of the public to verify information through official defence headquarters communication channels before publication or dissemination.
The DHQ added that the armed forces remained committed to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty, peace and security.