..Suspect allegedly admits staging clip to gain TikTok followers
…Police warn against spreading false information capable of causing panic
The Nigeria Police Force in Ogun State has reportedly arrested a man accused of staging and circulating a fake bandit attack video on social media in a bid to attract followers and online attention.
According to reports, the suspect, identified as Qowiy Oloyede, was apprehended after a complaint was lodged by Ayinla Sodiq of Obasanjo Ota in Ogun State.
The incident was said to have been reported on May 23 at a police station in Atan Ota, where the complainant accused the suspect of producing and sharing a misleading TikTok video falsely alleging that bandits had invaded the community.
A counterinsurgency publication, Zagazola Makama, disclosed that the divisional police officer immediately questioned the suspect following the complaint.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to fabricating the video content for the purpose of gaining followers and increasing engagement on social media platforms.
In a viral clip circulating online, the suspect was seen kneeling while being questioned by a man dressed in a police uniform.
The suspect reportedly admitted in the video that the supposed armed herder featured in the content was actually a cattle rearer who normally grazed cows behind his shop.
He further claimed that the cattle rearer initially declined participation before later agreeing to feature in the staged recording.
According to the report, the suspect also stated that he could neither read nor write, adding that the caption accompanying the viral video was written by his apprentice.
He allegedly told investigators that he had only created and uploaded two similar videos — one posted on Monday and another on Wednesday.
Police authorities were also said to have recovered photographs and video materials linked to the fake publication during preliminary investigations.
The report added that the suspect may be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department in Abeokuta for further investigation.
The police reportedly warned members of the public against spreading false or misleading information capable of triggering fear, panic, or public disorder.
Authorities also urged residents to verify sensitive information before reposting or sharing content on social media platforms.
The development comes amid growing concerns over the misuse of social media platforms to spread misinformation and unverified security reports across parts of the country.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that fake reports of attacks and violence can heighten public anxiety and undermine confidence in law enforcement efforts.
The incident has also sparked conversations online about the increasing desperation among some content creators seeking visibility and monetisation through sensational or fabricated content.
