Kwara State Government Intensifies Efforts to Combat Fake News and Rumor Peddling

The Kwara State government has announced its commitment to implementing additional measures aimed at curbing the spread of fake news and baseless rumors within the state.

During an interactive session with press secretaries from various ministries, departments, and agencies at the ministry’s headquarters in Ilorin, the Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, highlighted the need to address the growing issue of fake news. Olukoju emphasized the potential devastating impact such misinformation could have on societal values and progress.

The commissioner revealed that the state government had already taken several steps to combat fake news, including apprehending suspected carriers of false information through law enforcement efforts.

Olukoju outlined new measures, stating, “We have instructed Press Secretaries to report activities of MDAs not later than an hour after the event to own the narrative. They are also to attach their phone contacts to their press releases for further clarifications from members of the public. Feedback from this measure has been tremendous.”

Elaborating on the new initiative, Olukoju disclosed that the government is in the process of compiling the official social media handles of all MDAs. Once collated, this information will be shared with the public, emphasizing that any news not reported from these official handles should be considered fake.

The Commissioner assured press secretaries of the ministry’s support and encouraged them to take advantage of the open-door policy to discuss challenges, strengths, weaknesses, and potential solutions. She also mentioned plans for in-house training sessions to enhance the efficiency of press secretaries in delivering their services.

In response, Abdulganiyu Atere, the Director of Information Services, expressed appreciation to the commissioner for sharing innovative ideas with press secretaries to enhance their productivity. Sangodare Ayinla, the Communication Officer for Kwara FADAMA, commended the Commissioner for introducing various innovative ideas to facilitate the work of press secretaries.