Personality in Focus
Adejobi Cautions Media, Security Agencies Against Fake News, Hails NAOSNP
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The Nigeria Police Force PRO, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has tasked media professionals and security officers to deal decisively with the menace of false information, fake news and cyber threats as they have the capacity to destroy ‘not only our national security but also our social cohesion, political stability, and economic development’, adding that ‘Unchecked fake news and online threats can have disastrous effects on our society, eroding confidence, igniting violence, and inhibiting societal progress’.
Adejobi gave this charge in his keynote address at the National Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP Media Workshop which held last week in Lagos.
Noting that ‘the emergence of social media platforms and the ease with which information can be shared have accelerated the spread of false information. These platforms frequently place a higher value on engagement and virality than on the truthfulness of the content, providing an ideal environment for the dissemination of false information. Confirmation bias, the urge for clickbait, and sensationalism all contribute to drawing attention and raising the possibility of spreading erroneous information.’
While hailing NAOSNP for championing positive change, the Police PR expert who was represented by SP Benjamin Hundeyin, PPRO Lagos Command urged the frontline security beat association and other media professionals to engage in ‘verification and fact-checking; promoting media literacy; transparency and corrections; responsible reporting; collaboration and sharing best practices’ as urgent roles that Nigerian media must play in combating fake news in the society.
For security agencies, Adejobi noted that ‘detection and investigation; prevention and mitigation; and public awareness and education’ are vital roles that the Nigeria Police and other security agencies must play in destroying the menace of fake news, cyber threats, and security challenges before they destroy us.
In the same vein, the Founder of JournalismNG, Oba Adeoye said that there is a need for collaboration between the media and security agencies to mitigate the threats of false information, fake news, and cyber threats so as to ensure the safety and security of Nigerians. These issues are capable of inciting violence, misinformation during emergencies, public health risks, security threats, threat to social stability, preservation of democracy, and economic development.
He warned media professionals to beware of sharing fake news, sensationalizing stories, or adding personal biases to stories. ‘Fake news can have a significant impact on the credibility of the media. When false information is published or broadcast by a media organization, it can undermine the trust that the public has in that organization. This can lead to a loss of credibility, which can have long-term consequences.’
Recalling the infamous Rwandan genocide and the recent Overcomers parish in Ajah, Lagos saga, the media Consultant, FrieslandCampina WAMCO, Dr. Kunle Hamilton said that ‘the primary aim of the promoters and publishers of fake news is to instigate acts of violence, chaos and disunity among peoples. Fake news often courts hate speeches.’
He identified eight features that journalists must pay attention to so as to address fake news. These are ‘satire or parody, misleading content, imposter content, manipulated content, fabricated content, rush to press, no journalism training, and photocopy publishing.’
The panel discussion at the media workshop featured CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force PRO (Keynote Speaker) as represented by SP Benjamin Hundeyin, Police PRO Lagos Command; Dr. Kunle Hamilton, Media Consultant, FrieslandCampina WAMCO; Dr. Cynthia Greg, MD, Safety Signatures; Supt. Route Commander Olabisi Sonusi, Public Education Officer, FRSC Lagos Sector Command; Mr. Damilare Adewusi from Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA); Mr. Matthew Obiazikwor, Head, Communications and Brand Management, Unity Bank Plc; and Mrs Titilayo Ogunluyi, Deputy Commander, NDLEA Lagos Command.
Mr. Matthew Obiazikwor, Head, Communications and Brand Management, Unity Bank Plc encouraged media practitioners to undergo training and retraining in order to get better on the job. ‘I want you to understand media laws. I don’t know how much conversant we are with media laws and the legal environment of our practice. That is why I suggest that we go back to take some media and mass communication courses which will make you to be able to do much more and be impactful in how you do your work.’
Urging journalists to verify news before going to press or posting online, Dr. Cynthia Greg, MD, Safety Signatures said: ‘I am bemused about the pedestrian way that media is being handled today. For people like us who studied media arts in the university about 25 years ago, we would understand the importance of investigative journalism. So when we rush to press or media, we want to shatter the table or to be seen as the first to break the news, we want to remember that there is still the role of investigative journalism in every content that you churn out in the media.’
DCN Titilayo Ogunluyi, Deputy Commander, NDLEA Lagos Command pleaded with the media sector to support the efforts of the agency to reduce the menace of narcotic use in Nigeria. ‘By creating awareness you will help us to remove barriers to seeking help in rehabilitation centres and therapies. Cure doesn’t come cheap that is why we advocate prevention.’
Speaking with journalists shortly after the media workshop, the President of NAOSNP, Oki Samson admonished practitioners to avoid rushing to the press without verifying information as he recalled a recent case of fake news which spread about AIG Hakeem Odumosu being appointed as EFCC Chairman. ‘When my colleague sent me a message about former AIG Hakeem Odumosu, the first thing I did was to send it to some platforms to authenticate it. In case you cannot reach the person directly, kindly find a way to verify information at your disposal rather than rushing to the press.’
He added that ‘this is the second workshop organized by NAOSNP. The first one was in 2022 where over 125 practitioners were in attendance.’
Distinguished legal practitioner and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Dr. Monday Onyekachi Ubani, has reached another defining milestone in his illustrious career after earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) honours in Law from Babcock University.
The new feat is a definite declaration that his academic journey is far from over just as he seeks the next frontier – professorship.
Ubani was among a select group of scholars conferred with doctoral degrees during the university’s 2026 convocation ceremony, an event that celebrated academic excellence, research and innovation. The colourful ceremony attracted government officials, members of the Bench and Bar, academics, family members and well-wishers from across the country, National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP can report.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who attended the convocation as a special guest, congratulated the graduating students on their academic accomplishments and challenged them to deploy their knowledge, research and expertise towards national development. He also commended Babcock University for its sustained commitment to quality education, impactful research and the development of highly skilled professionals.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Prof. Afolarin Ojewole, described the convocation as a celebration of discipline, sacrifice, resilience and scholarly excellence. “Earning a PhD represents years of rigorous research, critical inquiry and unwavering commitment to knowledge,” he said, noting that the achievement reflected not only the graduates’ determination but also the invaluable support of supervisors, lecturers, families, friends and the wider academic community. He added that the newly conferred doctoral graduates now bear the responsibility of contributing meaningfully to public policy, professional practice, national development and the global body of knowledge through research and innovation.
Among the highlights of the ceremony was the conferment of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law on Dr. Monday Onyekachi Ubani, SAN, whose latest academic accomplishment further reinforces his reputation as one of Nigeria’s foremost legal minds and a passionate advocate of lifelong learning.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the ceremony, the elated Ubani described the doctoral journey as one of the most intellectually demanding experiences of his life. “The journey does not end with the graduation ceremony. There are still administrative processes to complete. It is a very rigorous journey, but it is worth every sacrifice,” he said.
He encouraged professionals across different fields, including journalists, to embrace higher education, describing the PhD as “the last bus stop of knowledge.”
“I recommend a PhD for everyone, including journalists, if you can. It is a worthwhile experience that broadens your knowledge and perspective,” he stated.
Despite attaining one of the highest academic qualifications available, Ubani revealed that his ambitions remain alive. “The next step is professorship. I’m going for it. I want to start lecturing. Once I have a university where I’m lecturing, I will begin writing more. I’m a good writer; I even write better than I speak. By the grace of God, I believe He will make it happen. I have become a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, I have become a doctor, and I also hope to become a professor,” he said.
Offering words of encouragement to young Nigerians, Ubani urged them to remain steadfast in pursuing their aspirations through perseverance, diligence and faith.
“My message to the younger generation is that they must persevere. But, most importantly, they must know God. If you have God in your life, there is nothing you cannot achieve. There is nothing you cannot do if God is with you,” he said.
He also expressed heartfelt appreciation to his family, mentors, colleagues and friends for their unwavering support throughout the demanding doctoral programme, describing the achievement as a testament to God’s grace, hard work and the encouragement of those who believed in him. The convocation concluded with the formal conferment of doctoral degrees on successful candidates, as Babcock University charged the new PhD holders to uphold the highest standards of scholarship, integrity and service while applying their research to address societal challenges and advance national development.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has announced the passing of his immediate elder brother, Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi.
The monarch made the announcement in a statement released on Sunday through the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal.
Describing the late prince as a respected businessman and compassionate leader, the Ooni said Prince Adetunji lived a life dedicated to service, humility and the wellbeing of others.
According to the statement, the death of Prince Adetunji has left a deep void in the Ogunwusi family, the Ojaja Royal Dynasty and the entire Ile-Ife Kingdom.
Prince Adetunji, who was born on December 8, 1967, was a member of the Ojaja lineage of the Giesi Ruling House in Ile-Ife. He was also the Group Chairman of Primewaterview Holdings, where he earned recognition for his contributions to business development and entrepreneurship.
The Ooni noted that his late brother built a reputation as an innovative entrepreneur and visionary leader. Through his business activities, he created opportunities for many people and contributed to economic growth in different sectors.
The monarch further stated that beyond his achievements in business, Prince Adetunji was known for his generosity, kindness and commitment to humanitarian causes. He was said to have quietly supported many individuals and families, offering assistance, guidance and encouragement whenever needed.
The statement added that Prince Adetunji’s influence extended beyond the corporate world, as he remained deeply connected to his roots and maintained a strong interest in the progress and development of Ile-Ife and its people.
The Ooni described his late brother as a dependable adviser, a loving family member and a man whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
Family members, friends, associates and well wishers have continued to pay tribute to the late prince, remembering him for his humility, wisdom and positive impact on society.
The palace said further details regarding funeral arrangements and other ceremonies would be announced by the family in due course.
Prince Adetunji’s death marks a significant loss to the royal family and the people of Ile-Ife, who will remember him for his service, leadership and dedication to humanity.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has elected Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), as its next president after she polled the most votes when voting officially ended Sunday morning.
Mrs Badejo-Okusanya, the only female among the three presidential candidates, polled 12,317 votes to emerge the winner of the election, which was held through electronic voting for 24 hours. from 7:35 a.m. on Saturday to 7:34 a.m. on Sunday
She defeated her two challengers, polling 47.18 per cent of the 26,106 ballots cast in the presidential election, based on the final tally…
