The Digest:
The Senate has resolved to ask the National Security Adviser and the State Security Service to investigate the source and spread of false social media reports claiming Senate President Godswill Akpabio had died or was critically ill abroad.
Key Points:
- The Senate passed a resolution asking the NSA and SSS to probe viral rumours about Senate President Godswill Akpabio's death.
- The motion was raised by Senator Titus Zam, who cited damaging false reports on social media.
- For over a week, posts alleged Akpabio was critically ill, had collapsed in a London hospital, or had died.
- A US-based blogger amplified the claims, urging prayers for Akpabio and referencing past images of him using a walking stick.
- In response, Akpabio noted he was not the first leader targeted, recalling similar rumours about former Head of State Yakubu Gowon.
- He described the internet as "garbage in garbage out" but stressed the need for investigation into the rumour's origin.
- The Senate voted overwhelmingly to refer the matter to security agencies for a formal probe.
Sources: Premium Times
