Defence Headquarters debunks viral video, warns against misinformation

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed a viral video that it says misrepresents the Chief of Defence Staff, General OO Oluyede.

In a statement issued by Major General Samalia Uba, Director of Defence Information, on 9 June 2026, the DHQ described the video as fabricated, deceptive, and unrelated to any official communication, statement or engagement involving either senior military official.

The high command said the content was deliberately created to mislead the public and sow confusion about the activities and leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The DHQ urged the public to ignore the video, stressing that it did not come from any official military source or authorized communication channel.

“Initial evaluations conducted by the military suggest that the video shows clear indications of digital manipulation and was likely produced using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to create a false narrative,” the statement added.

The DHQ expressed concern over the growing misuse of emerging digital technologies and social media platforms to fabricate content involving senior military officials, warning that such actions could erode public trust and threaten national security.

The military also cautioned social media influencers, bloggers, content creators and online commentators against sharing, reposting or amplifying unverified military-related information for the sake of online engagement and visibility.

Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the Armed Forces of Nigeria urged media practitioners and the public to verify information through official Defence Headquarters channels, while assuring Nigerians of its ongoing dedication to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, peace and security.