Fake News, Not Govt Communication Failure, Escalated #EndSARS — Lai Mohammed

Former Information Minister, Lai Mohammed, has attributed the escalation of the #EndSARS protests to fake news and disinformation, dismissing claims that poor government communication was the primary cause.

Speaking at the London School of Economics and Political Science, Mohammed said the protests initially began as a legitimate movement against police brutality but later spiralled due to the widespread circulation of unverified information.

He identified the deployment of troops to the Lekki Toll Gate as a critical moment when misinformation surged, noting that the crisis became a mix of “fake news and violence.”

In remarks released through his media office, he criticised CNN for allegedly amplifying unverified and doctored content, which he said shaped international narratives about the incident.

Mohammed warned that the episode highlights the dangers of information disorder and called for stronger fact-checking mechanisms and responsible journalism.

He also pointed to Nigeria’s communication strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic, which included daily briefings and multilingual outreach, as an example of effective public engagement that helped maintain relatively low fatality rates.

On security matters, he recalled organising a media tour to former Boko Haram strongholds in the North-East, saying it helped dispel claims that insurgents still controlled vast territories.

He emphasised that managing information is a key component in countering insurgency and reducing fear among citizens.

The former minister further cited nationwide town hall meetings introduced during his tenure as a platform for direct interaction between government and the public.

He defended Nigeria’s suspension of Twitter, saying it was necessary due to concerns over misinformation and harmful content.

The LSE appearance concluded his three-day UK speaking tour, where he shared insights from his book, Headlines & Soundbites: Media Moments That Defined an Administration, covering his time in office from 2015 to 2023.

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