The Defence Headquarters has debunked a video linked to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, stressing that the clip circulating on social media was fabricated.
As contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the DHQ’s spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, the army held that the video is false, noting that the fabricator of the video misrepresented Oluyede as the Chief of Army Staff.
Uba described the video which was generated by Artificial Intelligence as deliberate attempt to misinform the public and create confusion.
He urged the public to disregard the clip.
“The Defence Headquarters categorically states that the video is false, misleading and does not represent any official communication, position, statement or engagement involving either the Chief of Defence Staff or the Chief of Army Staff.
“The content is a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and create confusion regarding the activities and leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“Members of the public are advised to disregard the video in its entirety, as it did not originate from any official military source.
“Assessment of the video indicate that the content bears clear signs of digital manipulation premised on Artificial Intelligence and should not be relied upon in any way.” The army spokesperson said.
While expressing concern over the exploitation of technologies and social media to fabricate contents, Uba urged influencers, bloggers and content creators to from sharing any unverified military-related contents.
“The Defence Headquarters remains concerned about the growing trend of individuals exploiting digital technologies and social media platforms to fabricate content involving senior military officers.
“Such actions not only constitute misinformation but also have the potential to undermine public confidence and ultimately compromise national security efforts.
“The Defence Headquarters further urge social media influencers, bloggers, content creators and online commentators to desist from sharing, reposting, endorsing or amplifying unverified military-related content.” He said.
The DHQ spokesperson warned that the quest for online visibility and engagement must not come at the expense of truth, national security and responsible journalism.
“Media practitioners and members of the public are encouraged to verify information through the official Defence Headquarters communication channels before publication or dissemination.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains focused on its constitutional responsibilities and will continue to work tirelessly to protect the sovereignty, peace and security of the nation.” He added.