Police IG Vows Crackdown on Fake News Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has assured Nigerians that the Nigeria Police Force will intensify efforts to track and prosecute individuals responsible for spreading fake news, fabricated videos and misleading digital content capable of threatening public safety.

Disu said the police had strengthened their cybercrime monitoring and digital forensic capabilities to identify those circulating false information, including fabricated notices and videos.

He made this known on Wednesday at the annual conference and awards ceremony of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria, where he warned that misinformation could aggravate existing security challenges, particularly as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.

The police chief explained that the National Cybercrime Centre was monitoring online platforms for false and inciting content, while cybercrime operations had been extended to Criminal Investigation Departments across the country.

He added that digital forensic investigations had already enabled the police to identify and arrest individuals behind fabricated online materials.

According to him, the Force would also respond promptly to viral false reports by providing evidence-based clarifications to prevent rumours from spreading.

Disu, however, emphasised that the crackdown would focus on deliberate fabrications and incitement, not legitimate journalism or the lawful expression of public opinion.

He disclosed that the police were considering establishing a verification channel with the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria to provide accredited journalists with timely and reliable information on security-related incidents, particularly during the election period.

The Inspector-General urged journalists to verify security reports before publication, distinguish confirmed facts from unverified claims and establish the credibility of videos circulating on social media.

He warned that misinformation ahead of the elections could discourage voter participation, weaken public confidence in the electoral process and trigger disputes over election results.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria, Festus Fifen, called for stronger cooperation between the media and security agencies to address emerging digital threats and protect public trust in electoral institutions.

Fifen said stakeholders must strengthen their defences against digital manipulation, harmonise security strategies and deepen collaboration ahead of the 2027 elections.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, Mohammed Sheidu, described the conference as timely, warning that misinformation and disinformation could undermine confidence in security institutions, create public panic and threaten national stability.

He called for a more responsible and professional media, alongside a well-equipped and motivated police force capable of protecting citizens and maintaining national security.