Kunle Adelabu
-Debunks beheading of two students
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Imota Local Council Development Area (LCDA) chapter, has challenged journalists , bloggers and social media influencers to ensure due diligence and professionalism in their information dissemination duty by verifying their reports properly before sharing to the public.
However, the charge is not restricted to professional journalists, bloggers and influencers alone but other social media users, according to the youth body, this is to prevent panic and fear always generated by such reports.
Comr. Adebogun Oriyomi Modupe, Coordinator, NYCN, made the appeal in a statement today in response to a radio station’s report that two students in Imota were beheaded in the community.
“The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Imota Local Branch, wishes to categoricallydebunk and condemn the false, misleading, and unfounded information currently circulating across various social media platforms alleging that primary school children were kidnapped and beheaded in Imota.”
The NYCN Imota Branch furthered, “After diligent verification and consultations with relevant stakeholders and authorities of security agencies within the community, we wish to state unequivocally that the said information is false, malicious, misleading, and far from the truth. There is no verified report or credible evidence to substantiate such claims within Imota.”
Expressing disappointment and concern over panic caused by the report which is being circulated, Comrade Adebogun said:
“We are deeply concerned about the unnecessary panic, fear, and anxiety that such unverified reports may cause among parents, guardians, residents, and members of the public. The dissemination of false information, especially on matters relating to public safety and security, is irresponsible and capable of disrupting the peace and social harmony that our community enjoys.
“We therefore urge members of the public, media practitioners, bloggers, and social media users to refrain from sharing unverified information and to always verify sensitive reports through appropriate channels before publication or circulation.”
While urging residents of Imota to remain calm, Adebogun said the NYCN in the community will continue to work with security agencies and other stakeholders in ensuring safety of lives and properties.
“The NYCN Imota Local Branch remains committed to collaborating with security agencies, community leaders, educational institutions, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, particularly our children.
“We encourage everyone to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding while continuing their lawful activities without fear.”
NYCN Coordinator, urged members of the public to disregard the news report.
“The public is advised to disregard the rumour in its entirety and avoid further circulation of the false narrative.
“Together, let us promote peace, responsible communication, and the dissemination of factual information.”
He urged anyone with security related information to pass it onto necessary security agencies.
“Any person with credible information relating to security concerns should report such information to the appropriate authorities for prompt investigation.”
He added, “For verification, clarification, or media inquiries regarding this matter, kindly contact:
Comr. Adebogun Oriyomi Modupe
Coordinator, National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Imota Local Branch
+234 8154266138
Whatsapp: 08093916485
