DHQ debunks viral video falsely portraying military chiefs

By Kingsley Omonobi

ABUJA — The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has issued a statement dismissing a viral video that has been circulating on social media. The video, which purports to show the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), is said to be fabricated and misleading.

Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, described the clip as “fabricated, misleading and designed to spread misinformation.” He added that the video misidentifies the person shown as the Chief of Army Staff in some instances.

“The Defence Headquarters categorically states that the video is false, misleading and does not represent any official communication, position, statement or engagement involving either the Chief of Defence Staff or the Chief of Army Staff,” Uba said.

He warned that the content was a deliberate attempt to confuse the public about the activities and leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. The DHQ urged Nigerians to disregard the video, noting that it did not come from any official military source.

Preliminary assessments indicate that the video shows clear signs of digital manipulation, likely produced with artificial intelligence technology. “Assessment of the video indicates that the content bears clear signs of digital manipulation premised on Artificial Intelligence and should not be relied upon in any way,” the statement read.

The Defence Headquarters expressed concern over the growing use of digital tools and social media to create and spread fabricated content involving senior military officers. It warned that such actions could erode public confidence in security institutions and undermine national security efforts.

The military also cautioned social media influencers, bloggers, content creators and online commentators against sharing or amplifying unverified military-related material. “The quest for online visibility and engagement must not come at the expense of truth, national security and responsible journalism,” Uba stated.

He advised journalists and the public to verify information through official Defence Headquarters channels before publishing or disseminating military-related reports.

The DHQ reaffirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain focused on their constitutional duties and will continue to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty, peace and security.

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