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Fake news has become a pervasive force in Nigeria’s digital space, affecting political discourse, public health, and social cohesion. As digital communication channels expand, misinformation is not only widespread it also undermines trust in institutions and disrupts everyday life. Nigerian citizens faced an attack of fabricated information that ranges from the manipulated last pandemic statistics to provocative political propaganda, each with significant consequences for society.
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Political Destabilization and Public Distrust

Fake news has had a particularly corrosive effect on Nigeria’s political environment. During the lead-up to the 2019 general elections, a surge in disinformation (such as false claims about candidate backgrounds and manipulated election results) led to widespread public confusion and unrest. Research shows that politically motivated fake news not only skews voter perceptions but also weakens the legitimacy of democratic institutions. For instance, social media platforms were rife with unfounded narratives that blamed opposition parties for election fraud, contributing to a deep mistrust of the electoral process. As digital journalist Apuke and Omar (2020) note, these fabricated stories were strategically used to incite partisan passions, which ultimately eroded public confidence in both political leaders and the media.
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Public Health Risks and Misinformation During Crises

The last pandemic highlighted the dangerous consequences of fake news on public health. In Nigeria, misinformation regarding the pandemic (for example, exaggerated claims about the virus’s mortality rates and false cures) has led to non-adherence to official health guidelines and increased public anxiety. A study by Ahmed and Msughter (2022) found that nearly two-thirds of Nigerian social media users were exposed to false news stories during the pandemic, resulting in confusion and distrust toward public health messages. Such misinformation not only hampers efforts to contain the virus but also endangers lives by prompting individuals to adopt unverified and potentially harmful practices. Social media posts that claimed the pandemic was a hoax or fabricated by the government have undermined efforts by agencies like the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), thereby exacerbating the crisis.
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Economic Consequences and Social Fragmentation

Fake news in Nigeria is not limited to political and health domains; it also disrupts the economy and deepens social divides. Online scams, fraudulent schemes, and misinformation campaigns targeting sensitive topics have far-reaching financial implications. For example, recent cases of sextortion and online fraud have been propelled by false narratives circulated on social media, leading to significant financial losses for victims. Moreover, the spread of fake news contributes to social fragmentation by fueling ethnic and religious tensions. Disinformation aimed at inciting violence among different communities has led to localized conflicts and even lynchings, as was evident in several incidents reported in regions like Plateau State. These economic and social repercussions underscore the need for robust fact-checking mechanisms and media literacy campaigns to restore trust and maintain social stability.
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Conclusion

The impact of fake news on Nigerian society is multifaceted and deeply concerning. Political destabilization, public health risks, and economic as well as social disruptions are all exacerbated by the unchecked proliferation of false information on digital platforms. Addressing this challenge requires coordinated efforts from government, civil society, technology companies, and media organizations to strengthen fact-checking processes, improve digital literacy, and foster a more informed public. Only through such collaborative actions can the tide of misinformation be stemmed and its harmful consequences mitigated.
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This article was first published on 21st February 2025
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preciousgift-nwaeze

Preciousgift is an exceptionally gifted Nigerian writer with a robust theological background and an unwavering passion for gospel music. Alongside crafting uplifting gospel content, he demonstrates expertise in writing about education, communication, and technology, showcasing his remarkable versatility across various subjects.

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