The Lagos State Government has warned against fake news, misinformation and inciting messages making around on social media, stating that it is an attempt to cause mischief in the State by the anarchist.
Furthermore, the Government has urged Lagosians to disregard social media videos brewing ethnic sentiments and religious chauvinism with a view to wreaking havoc in Lagos State.
The Government disclosed this in a statement issued by Gbenga Omotoso, Commissioner for Information & Strategy which was made available to TheNigeriaLawyer.
“The attention of the Lagos State Government has been drawn to videos in social media and the online space, creating tension and encouraging ethnic conflicts.
“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged Lagosians to disregard the videos, which are the tools of anarchists, whose plan is to create hatred and divisiveness for which Lagos is not known”, he said.
In addition, it was stated that such is not needed at this critical time, adding that “Inciting videos of this nature are not what our land needs now, following the loss of lives and destruction that fake news, misinformation and unfounded rumours have triggered in our dear State in the last couple of days.”
Also, the Government urged the people not to be moved by attempts to make it a case of ethnic or religious chauvinism as being done by some people.
“The government appeals to Lagosians to disregard the calls of ethnic and religious jingoists as well as agents of destruction who are on a mission to destroy our State by pitching us against one another for yet to be ascertained reasons.
“This is a very critical moment for us as a people. It is, therefore, important that we stand together and remain circumspect because the brewery of falsehood is unrelenting in its mission.”
Meanwhile, it was noted that Lagos State has been an avenue for a peaceful coexistence of different tribes and religions for ages.
“Lagos State is the melting point of various cultures, tribes and religions across Nigeria. We have co-existed harmoniously for ages and will continue to live together peacefully.”
“The sad incident of the past few days affected everyone who lives, trades or works in Lagos, regardless of their tribe, culture, race and religion. This is a time for us to empathise with one another and not listen to purveyors of evil messages, especially on social media”, he added.
Finally, the Government warns against misinformation, stating that perpetrators are going to face the wrath of the Law should they fail to desist.
“The government will continue to protect lives and property. Fake news and inciting message merchants are hereby warned to stop their evil enterprise or face the legal consequences of their destructive actions. Our dear State will go through this with the resilience for which we are known and come out stronger”, he stated.
