By Chimezie Godfrey
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked a viral video circulating on social media that falsely portrays the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and in some instances attempts to misrepresent the individual featured as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director, Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military described the video as fabricated, misleading and entirely unconnected to the leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
According to the Defence Headquarters, the content does not represent any official communication, position, statement or engagement involving either the CDS or the COAS, but is rather a deliberate attempt to misinform members of the public and create confusion about the activities of the Armed Forces.
The DHQ advised Nigerians to disregard the video completely, stressing that it did not originate from any official military source.
The military further disclosed that preliminary assessment of the footage revealed clear signs of digital manipulation driven by Artificial Intelligence technology, warning that the content should not be relied upon for any purpose.
The Defence Headquarters expressed concern over the increasing use of digital tools and social media platforms to fabricate content involving senior military officers, noting that such actions constitute misinformation and could undermine public trust as well as national security efforts.
It also cautioned social media influencers, bloggers, content creators and online commentators against sharing, endorsing or amplifying unverified military-related content.
The statement emphasised that the pursuit of online visibility and engagement should not come at the expense of truth, responsible journalism and national security.
The DHQ urged journalists and members of the public to verify military-related information through official Defence Headquarters communication channels before publication or dissemination.
It reiterated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to their constitutional responsibilities of safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, peace and security.
DHQ Raises Alarm Over AI-Manipulated Video, Clears CDS, COAS of Viral Social Media Clip
