December 16, (THEWILL) — The Senate on Tuesday directed the National Security Adviser (NSA) to investigate the source, motive, and promoters of widespread social media rumours alleging that Senate President Godswill Akpabio had collapsed or died.
The resolution followed a point of order raised under Order 42 by Senator Titus Zam (Benue North West), who expressed concern over the circulation of what he described as false and destabilising reports within the last 48 hours.
Zam told the chamber that the spread of unverified claims about the health and safety of the Senate President, the nation’s number three citizen, was alarming and unacceptable, warning that such misinformation posed a threat to leadership and democratic stability.
Describing the rumours as irresponsible, the lawmaker called on the Senate to take firm action against those behind the reports, stressing the need to investigate and sanction individuals or groups promoting false narratives against public office holders.
Responding, Senate President Akpabio noted that the matter was raised on a point of order and had not undergone exhaustive debate, but acknowledged the damaging impact of unchecked social media content.
He disclosed that he had been made aware of fabricated images and posts announcing his death, including calls for a minute of silence, describing the situation as a reflection of the difficulty in regulating online platforms.
Akpabio subsequently asked the chamber whether it wished the matter to be formally referred to the National Security Adviser for investigation.
When the proposal was put to a voice vote, the majority of senators supported the motion.
Ruling in favour of the resolution, Akpabio announced that the Senate would formally communicate the decision to the NSA.
The Senate therefore resolved that the National Security Adviser should investigate the origin and intent of the rumours, identify those responsible, and take appropriate action to curb the spread of fake news and protect Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
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