The Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, has issued a strong warning to content creators against publishing misleading content capable of causing public panic.
The warning followed the arrest of a TikTok user, Pam Joseph, who allegedly circulated a viral video falsely claiming that terrorists had invaded Abuja.
According to the police, the video, which gained traction on social media on Thursday, suggested that gunshots were ongoing in parts of the nation’s capital, sparking fear among residents.
Addressing journalists on Friday, the CP disclosed that operatives of the command conducted a forensic analysis of the footage, which led to the identification and arrest of the suspect in Bwari area of Abuja.
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He said the suspect confessed during interrogation that the video was fabricated with the sole intention of gaining followers on TikTok.
Sanusi emphasised that the police would not tolerate the spread of false information capable of undermining public safety or creating unnecessary panic within the FCT.
He warned that advancements in investigative technology now make it easier for security agencies to trace individuals responsible for such acts, regardless of their location.
The police chief urged content creators to act responsibly and verify information before sharing, stressing that claims of terrorist activity are sensitive and should not be trivialised.
The development highlights growing concerns over the misuse of social media platforms to spread misinformation, particularly on issues relating to national security, as authorities intensify efforts to hold offenders accountable.