The Nigerian Senate has directed the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to investigate widespread social media rumors alleging the collapse and even death of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The resolution came after Senator Titus Zam raised a point of order under Order 42, expressing concern over the alarming reports that had circulated for 48 hours.
Senator Zam described the rumors as unacceptable, stressing that the Senate President, as the nation’s number three citizen, should not be subjected to such misinformation.
Responding, Akpabio acknowledged the difficulty of controlling narratives online, remarking that social media often produces “garbage in, garbage out.”
He then asked whether it was the wish of the Senate to refer the matter to the NSA. The proposal was put to a voice vote and adopted, mandating Ribadu to investigate the source and intent of the rumors.
Senate’s Stand Against Misinformation
The chamber’s decision underscores growing concern over the impact of misinformation on governance and public trust.
Lawmakers argued that false reports about the health of national leaders could destabilize institutions and erode confidence in democracy.
By involving the NSA, the Senate signaled its intent to treat the matter as a national security issue rather than mere gossip.
The move also highlights the challenge of regulating social media in Nigeria, where unverified claims often spread rapidly and shape public perception.
While Akpabio dismissed the rumors as baseless, the Senate’s resolution reflects a determination to trace their origins and motives.
Whether the investigation leads to prosecution or tighter social media regulatory laws, the episode illustrates how deliberate digital misinformation can potentially destabilize a nation if left unchecked.
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