Combating Digital Misinformation: The Challenge of Policing Truth

Lagos Police Command Embraces Strategic Communication as Security Tool

In Lagos, where misinformation can spread faster than emergency sirens, the state’s Police Command has adopted a new approach to maintaining public order. Throughout 2025, under Commissioner Moshood Olahundare Jimoh, the Command has increasingly recognized that effective policing extends beyond traditional tactics into the crucial domain of public communication.

In a megacity of over 20 million people, a single misleading video or unverified claim can spark widespread panic within hours. The Lagos State Police Command has responded to this challenge by developing a systematic approach to countering false narratives through detailed and carefully crafted press statements, particularly during moments of heightened tension.

A notable example occurred on September 7, 2025, when Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour accused the police during a live television interview of colluding with political thugs to impose a one-party agenda in Alimosho. Rather than engaging in a war of words, the Command responded with a clear timeline of events. They explained that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had properly notified authorities about their sensitization program, while Rhodes-Vivour had not submitted any rally notification. The police clarified that their intervention at a church premises happened only after distress calls from worshippers about an unauthorized political gathering.

This fact-based, prompt response helped transform the conversation from political accusation to a matter of proper procedure and public order, effectively defusing a potentially volatile situation.

The Command employed similar tactics following the Oworonshoki demolition exercise in October 2025. When social media allegations of police brutality surfaced, authorities swiftly explained that the demolition was conducted by urban development officials after months of notice and compensation arrangements, with police present solely to maintain order.

This context-restoring communication proved valuable, as demolition exercises in Lagos are emotionally charged events that can easily become politicized. The timely correction helped prevent escalation into protests or reprisals.

Public outrage flared again in November 2025 over reports claiming police attempted to release a foreign national accused of child abuse. The Command’s response was decisive: they clarified that no Lebanese national was involved, outlined the Gender Unit’s role, confirmed both child and mother had denied any molestation, and assured continued investigation with public disclosure of findings.

The tone struck in this response proved as critical as the content. Rather than dismissing public concern, the police acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue while explaining investigative procedures. This transparency helped stem speculation and reassured child-rights advocates.

Another significant moment came when media reports alleged the Commissioner had defied a court order at the Nestoil premises. The Command’s detailed response included precise timelines of when the order was received, verification steps taken, and when officers withdrew. By anchoring its response in legal procedure and documented events, the police protected institutional credibility.

The Command also demonstrated adaptability when dealing with viral videos showing potential misconduct. When footage of a police officer in a physical altercation with a bus conductor circulated widely, authorities confirmed the officer’s identity, explained the encounter’s context, and announced an investigation, while also reminding the public that resisting arrest remains illegal. This balanced approach reduced risks of mob judgment while showing accountability.

In early December, two separate incidents further highlighted the Command’s evolving approach. When a Lagos State Task Force inspector was assaulted following false theft claims, police clarified facts, confirmed disciplinary action against the officer for unprofessional conduct, and announced arrests of assault suspects. In another case involving reports of gunmen invading Ajebo community, the Command explained the situation stemmed from a land dispute rather than an armed attack.

These responses collectively demonstrate a police force that increasingly treats information management as a core security issue. The Command appears to understand that misinformation fuels fear, which breeds disorder, while accurate information restores balance.

However, there remains room for improvement. Press releases often arrive after false narratives have already gained traction online. The Command would benefit from stronger real-time digital engagement, simplified fact summaries for social media, and regular public briefings that educate citizens on verification practices. Partnerships with credible media organizations and independent fact-checkers could further strengthen trust.

By choosing engagement over silence and facts over force, the Lagos State Police Command has shown that in modern policing, defending the truth is itself a vital security function.