The Delta State Police Command has arrested two persons accused of producing and circulating a misleading video relating to a recent road accident in Ughelli, saying they will be prosecuted after investigations are concluded.
The suspects, identified by the Command as Egoh Best Akpome and Omonigho Jitoboh, were presented at the State Police Headquarters on Friday, where investigators questioned them over the controversial video recorded at the scene of the incident.
According to the police, the video contained claims that were found to be misleading and capable of creating a false narrative about the circumstances surrounding the accident, as well as bringing the Nigeria Police Force into disrepute.
The Command said investigations into the matter were ongoing, adding that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of the probe.
Police authorities maintained that the arrest forms part of ongoing efforts to discourage the deliberate dissemination of false information capable of misleading the public, inciting tension or undermining public confidence in law enforcement institutions.
During their appearance at the Command Headquarters, the suspects urged bloggers, online publishers and other social media users to verify information before sharing it with the public, warning against the dangers and legal consequences of publishing unverified reports.
The police also reminded media practitioners and digital content creators of their responsibility to uphold ethical standards by ensuring that reports are factual, balanced and properly verified before publication.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the public from misinformation while respecting the constitutional right to freedom of expression, noting that individuals who deliberately spread false information would be held accountable under the law.
