• Says Discrediting Police Must Stop
By Kamil Opeyemi
Worried by alleged spread of online contents that are capable of damaging the image of the police, the Police hierarchy on Monday ordered a clampdown on purveyors of fake news.
Police Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun gave the directive against the backdrop of suspected moves to discredit the force.
The police said it is worried by the volume of negative contents in circulation adding that the force would not fold its arms and watch the country set on fire.
Egbetokun’s statement was released by the force spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
Adejobi also said part of the problem was the circulation of old contents of to Discredit System.
“The Nigeria Police Force condemns in the strongest terms the dissemination of fake news and the perpetuation of cyberbullying aimed at discrediting the diligent efforts of our officers in maintaining law and order,” the statement read
It said It has come to the attention of the force that certain individuals and groups have been maliciously spreading old content and misinformation across various online platforms, seeking to undermine public trust in the policing system.
“Fake news and cyberbullying which is criminalized by the combined effect of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015 and other extant criminal laws, not only pose a threat to the reputation the Force but also have the potential to incite fear and discord within the country.
“The NPF views these actions as a direct assault on the stability and safety of our society and will not hesitate to take decisive action against those found responsible.”
The statement noted that the latest action was in response to what it called “alarming trend” adding that the NPF is intensifying its efforts to combat fake news and cyberbullying through increased vigilance and monitoring of online platforms.
“The IGP has ordered the NPF National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) to clamp down on those individuals and groups of people who are bent on jeopardizing our national security and stability via the spread of fake news and misinformation.
“The IGP also ordered that all perpetrators found spreading false information or engaging in cyberbullying be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
“The Police will work closely with relevant authorities to ensure swift and appropriate legal action against offenders.” It added
The police called on all citizens to wary of sharing information online.
“Together, we must stand united against the spread of misinformation and cyberbullying, recognizing that the safety and well-being of our country depend on our collective efforts to uphold truth and integrity.
Similarly, we urge members of the public to report any instances of fake news or cyberbullying to the Police for prompt investigation and action.” He said