The Lagos state government has accused some social media influencers and bloggers of circulating misleading images of flooding from other locations and falsely presenting them as scenes from Lagos.
The state’s Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the allegation in a post on X on Sunday, stating that the practice aimed to promote what he described as a “destructive narrative” about flooding in the state.
Mr Wahab stated that the government had observed a trend in which flood images from other Nigerian states and countries were shared online and falsely attributed to Lagos.
“We have watched with concern as some individuals have chosen to politicise the issue of flooding in Lagos by circulating misleading visuals from other states and countries that have experienced severe flooding, all in an attempt to advance a destructive narrative,” he said.
The commissioner explained that the government continuously monitors reports of flooding and other environmental concerns and responds to complaints received through various channels.
He, however, expressed concern that some bloggers and social media influencers deliberately shared false or misleading information to generate online engagement.
“However, it is deeply concerning that some bloggers and social media influencers deliberately disseminate false or misleading information solely to generate clicks and engagement, with little regard for the genuine concerns of residents and property owners whose cases deserve urgent attention and intervention,” he noted.
Mr Wahab urged residents, bloggers and other stakeholders to verify information before publishing or sharing it, stressing that accurate information is essential for addressing environmental challenges effectively.
“Accurate information is essential to addressing challenges effectively and developing lasting solutions,” he said. (Premium Times)