Sokoto Police Command Warns Against Social Media Misuse, Fake News, and Cybercrime, Vows Legal Action
The Sokoto State Police Command has issued a strong warning to residents against the misuse of social media platforms to circulate unverified information, fake news, and harmful rumours that could cause panic and breach public peace. In a statement released by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Ahmad Rufa’i, the police emphasised that such actions would no longer be tolerated, and that offenders would face the full weight of the law. The warning comes amid growing concerns over the spread of false narratives, fabricated images, and out-of-context photographs across various digital platforms, which the command said could threaten public order and social harmony. The police urged residents to be cautious and responsible in their use of social media, noting that the digital space has become a double-edged sword—while it enables communication and information sharing, it also provides a fertile ground for misinformation, cyberbullying, and other forms of cybercrime. The command stressed that the era of using social media to settle scores, spread panic, or undermine public safety is over, and that law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to identify, track, and prosecute individuals who engage in such harmful behaviour.
The statement further highlighted the dangers of unverified information, particularly in a state like Sokoto, which has faced security challenges ranging from banditry and kidnapping to cattle rustling. The police command noted that false information can exacerbate tensions, mislead the public, and hinder the efforts of security agencies working to maintain peace and order. In recent times, the command observed a troubling trend of individuals sharing manipulated images and videos, some of which were taken out of context, to create the impression of insecurity or to discredit security agencies. Such actions, the command warned, are not only irresponsible but also criminal, as they can lead to unnecessary panic, mob action, or even violence. The police therefore advised residents to always verify any information before sharing it, and to rely on official channels for accurate and credible updates. The command reiterated that its doors are open to the public, and that anyone with questions or concerns about security matters should not hesitate to contact the police directly rather than resorting to speculative posts on social media.
In addition to addressing the issue of fake news, the Sokoto Police Command also used the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to combating violent crimes in the state. According to Superintendent Rufa’i, the command is working closely with other security agencies in Sokoto to tackle cattle rustling, kidnapping, banditry, and other serious offences that have plagued parts of the Northwest region. He attributed the recorded operational successes to the support and cooperation of the Sokoto State Government, which he said has continued to prioritise the safety and security of residents through timely interventions and the provision of essential resources. The police command acknowledged that security is a collective responsibility, and that the cooperation of the public, traditional rulers, community leaders, and local government authorities has been instrumental in the fight against crime. The command assured residents that it remains fully committed to maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that Sokoto remains a safe place for all. However, the police also warned that the spread of false information could undermine these efforts by creating distrust between the public and security agencies, and by diverting attention from real security threats.
The warning by the Sokoto Police Command is consistent with Nigeria’s legal framework on cybercrime and digital communication. The Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act of 2015 provides for severe penalties for offences such as cyberstalking, identity theft, child pornography, and the intentional dissemination of false information through computer systems. Under the Act, individuals found guilty of using social media to spread falsehoods that threaten public peace can face imprisonment, fines, or both. The police command reminded residents that ignorance of the law is not an excuse, and that both the sender and the forwarder of harmful content can be held liable. This legal reality is often overlooked by social media users, who may believe that sharing a post is harmless or that they are merely passing along information. The police, however, made it clear that the law does not distinguish between the originator of a false message and those who help to amplify it. As such, residents were urged to exercise caution and restraint, and to think twice before hitting the share button on any content that could be deemed inflammatory, defamatory, or misleading.
The command also encouraged residents to play an active role in safeguarding their communities by reporting suspicious activities and cyber-related offences to the nearest police station or to the command’s Complaint Response Unit. To make this easier, the police provided dedicated phone numbers for emergencies and for reporting suspicious activities: 08032861946 and 09033002739. These lines, the command said, are available to all residents, and calls will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. The police urged community members to be vigilant and to report any individuals or groups engaged in cyberbullying, spreading fake news, or inciting violence through social media. The command noted that community policing is a cornerstone of modern law enforcement, and that the public’s willingness to share information with the police is critical to preventing crime and apprehending offenders. By working together, the police and the public can create a hostile environment for criminals and those who seek to destabilise the state through misinformation. The command also reassured residents that all reports will be thoroughly investigated, and that the police will not hesitate to act on credible intelligence.
In conclusion, the Sokoto State Police Command’s warning serves as a timely reminder of the responsibilities that come with the use of social media in today’s digital age. While the internet has empowered citizens to express their opinions and share information freely, it has also created new avenues for mischief, deception, and criminality. The police command’s message is clear: the spread of fake news, harmful rumours, and cyberbullying will not be tolerated, and offenders will face legal consequences. At the same time, the command reaffirmed its dedication to protecting the lives and property of residents, and to working with other security agencies and the state government to combat violent crimes. The success of these efforts, however, depends on the cooperation of the public. Residents are therefore urged to verify information before sharing it, to rely on official sources, and to report any suspicious activities to the police. By doing so, they will not only be protecting themselves and their families, but also contributing to the peace and stability of Sokoto State. The police command, for its part, has promised to remain vigilant, professional, and responsive to the needs of the people, and to ensure that Sokoto continues to be a safe and harmonious place for all its residents. (NAN)