Abuja, Nigeria — The Nigerian Senate has taken decisive action against individuals and platforms responsible for spreading false reports alleging the death of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon.

 

At its Tuesday plenary session, lawmakers raised alarm over the rapid spread of misleading information on social media suggesting that Senator Akpabio had collapsed and died in a London hospital — claims that have been firmly denied by credible sources and government aides. Rumours about General Gowon’s death were also circulated online but were debunked by his personal assistant, who confirmed the elder statesman is alive and in good health.

 

The motion, moved under Order 42 of the Senate Standing Orders by Senator Titus Zam (APC-Benue North-West), described the rumours as “false and highly irresponsible,” stressing their potential to mislead the public and inflict reputational damage. Lawmakers expressed concern about the social media landscape’s role in amplifying unverified and harmful narratives about national leaders.

 

In response, the Senate resolved to direct relevant security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), to investigate and identify the sources of the misinformation. The chamber further ordered that those found responsible be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

 

Senate President Akpabio acknowledged the challenge of controlling social media content but stressed the need for accountability and deterrent action against purveyors of fake news that target public officials and threaten national stability.

 

The Senate’s resolution also called on regulatory bodies to enhance monitoring of digital platforms to curb the spread of disinformation, stressing that misinformation undermines public confidence and can have far-reaching consequences if left unchecked