Summary: The Lagos State government is threatening legal action against a social media user for posting fake news about flooding. See why this is a serious warning for everyone online in Nigeria.
Omo, the gbas gbos online just got real! If you think you can just wake up, see a random video, and post it for engagement without checking facts, the Lagos State Government has a serious message for you.
It all started when one user on X (the app we still call Twitter) decided to post something showing heavy flooding, claiming it was happening in Lagos. As you know, with the rainy season we’re in, anything about flooding in Lagos spreads faster than harmattan fire. People started panicking, sharing, and dropping comments.
Well, the post got to the table of the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunboh Wahab, and he was not smiling at all.
In a swift response, the Commissioner called out the post for what it was: FAKE NEWS. He made it clear that the video or picture being shared was not from Lagos and was just meant to cause unnecessary fear.
But he didn’t stop there.
Here is the part where it gets serious. Commissioner Wahab announced that the state government will not let this slide. They are actively pursuing legal action against the user who shared the false information. In his own words, they are ready to “make a scapegoat” of the person to serve as a warning to others.
Wahala for who dey play with Lagos government o!
This is a huge signal to everyone – from content creators to the “forwarded as received” WhatsApp warriors. The government is saying that while you have freedom of speech, you don’t have the freedom to create public panic with lies.
With the very real anxiety surrounding flooding, especially for residents on the Island and other low-lying areas, spreading false information can have dangerous consequences.
So, before you hit that “post” or “share” button on a juicy story, especially one that can cause panic, it’s better to do a small check. Ask yourself: “Is this real? Where is this coming from?” Because as it stands, a simple “clout-chasing” post could land you in serious legal trouble.
What do you guys think? Is the government doing the right thing by taking legal action, or is it too extreme?
Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments.
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