The Nigeria Police Force has apprehended Destiny Ekhorutomuen for allegedly spreading fake news and inciting distrust against the Police through social media platforms. This arrest highlights the Police's intensified efforts to combat the dissemination of misinformation and maintain public trust in law enforcement institutions.
According to reports, Police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi disclosed that Ekhorutomuen was identified as the individual behind multiple social media accounts used to propagate false and inflammatory content. The suspect, a 38-year-old resident of Uhunmwonde Local Government Area in Edo State, was apprehended on December 8, 2024, after an extensive investigation by the Police operatives. Adejobi revealed that the suspect's actions were aimed at discrediting the Nigeria Police Force, undermining its reputation, and eroding public confidence in its operations.
In a statement released on Friday, Adejobi emphasized the negative impact of fake news and disinformation on society. He stated, “The Nigeria Police Force is committed to addressing the spread of fake news and disinformation, which undermines public trust and threatens national security. On December 8, 2024, operatives arrested 38-year-old Destiny Ekhorutomuen in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State. The suspect is accused of using various social media accounts to spread false and inciting information designed to discredit the Police.”
Adejobi further highlighted the detrimental effects of such actions, explaining that misinformation not only destabilizes societal cohesion but also poses significant threats to national security. “This deliberate spread of falsehood damages societal cohesion and poses a threat to national security. The misuse of social media to propagate fake news or incite disorder is unacceptable and punishable. We urge citizens to act responsibly and avoid using communication platforms to spread false information,” Adejobi added.
The Police spokesperson reiterated the Force’s zero-tolerance policy for actions that erode public trust or tarnish the image of government institutions. He assured citizens that the Police would continue to uphold law and order while taking strict measures against individuals or groups who attempt to destabilize society through the misuse of digital platforms. “The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to ensuring a safe and secure society. We will not tolerate actions aimed at inciting public distrust or creating discontent,” he said.
Adejobi also used the opportunity to call on Nigerians to exercise caution and responsibility in their use of social media. He urged citizens to verify information before sharing it online and to avoid spreading content that could incite panic or discontent. “We appeal to the public to use social media platforms responsibly and refrain from propagating false information. It is essential for every citizen to contribute to national peace and stability by avoiding the dissemination of fake news,” Adejobi concluded.
The arrest of Destiny Ekhorutomuen serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of spreading fake news or engaging in actions that undermine public institutions. The Police Force has vowed to remain vigilant and proactive in combating misinformation and ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians.
