The Conference of Civil Societies has expressed deep concerns over the increase in fake news and blackmail targeting officials. Chairperson
Adams Otakwu, in a recent press conference, stated, "The Conference of Civil Societies has noted with grave concern the resurgence of Fake News and Blackmail targeting some government and non-governmental officials."
He outlined that these malicious activities include "massive corruption, money laundering, gross abuse of office, running of private companies, failure to declare assets contrary to Part 1 of the Fifth Schedule of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), and alleged violation of the Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) for Officers 2017."
Despite the successful launch of the National Fake Tracker earlier this year on January 31st, challenges persist. "Earlier this year (precisely on January 31st), we held a crucial National Round Table with government ministries, departments and agencies, armed forces, security and intelligence agencies, civil societies, and the media at the National Human Rights Commission Abuja, during which we launched the National Fake Tracker to address this grave concern, and the success has had far-reaching impact," Otakwu said.
However, the resurgence of targeted attacks on heads of government departments and prominent citizens continues.
"However, there is a resurgence of the trend on targeted at Heads of MDAs of Government, Military Chiefs, Heads of Security, and Intelligence Agencies, and Renowned Private Citizens. The blackmailers often collude with internal elements who volunteer official secrets in a bid to unseat their principals," Otakwu explained.
This trend poses a significant threat to national security and development.
The Conference calls on the National Assembly to act decisively against these misleading petitions and to ensure the protection of national interests.
"This heinous and dangerous trend poses a significant threat to national security and development," Otakwu emphasized. A second National Round Table on July 30, 2024, aims to address these issues comprehensively.
"We will also be holding the 2nd National Round Table on Fake News and Blackmail of Government and Non-Governmental Office Holders on 30th July, 2024 in Abuja to rid our country of this menace and safeguard our national security and development."