The Nigeria Police Force in the Federal Capital Territory has warned content creators against sharing false or misleading videos that could cause panic among residents.
The warning follows the arrest of a TikToker who posted a viral video claiming terrorists had invaded Abuja.
The Commissioner of Police for the FCT, Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, issued the warning on Friday.
He stressed that spreading false information about security threats is dangerous. According to him, such actions can create fear and disrupt public order.
The warning came after a disturbing video circulated on social media. The footage claimed that terrorists had invaded Abuja and that gunshots were ongoing in parts of the city.
However, police investigations later confirmed that the video was false.
Meanwhile, police operatives launched an investigation into the source of the video.
Using forensic analysis, they identified the individual behind the voice in the clip. Officers then tracked the suspect to Bwari, a community within the FCT, where they arrested him.
The suspect, identified as Pam Joseph, admitted to creating the video.
He told investigators that he acted to gain followers on TikTok. His confession raised concerns about the misuse of social media for attention.
Following the arrest, the police issued a clear warning to content creators.
Sanusi said authorities now have the tools to track down individuals who spread false information. He warned that anyone who posts misleading content will face arrest.
He also urged the public to avoid sharing unverified reports, especially those related to security.
The police emphasised that claims of terrorist attacks should never be treated lightly.
False alarms, they said, can create unnecessary panic and strain security resources. Therefore, residents are advised to rely on official sources for information.
