Oyo Lawmaker, Waheed Akintayo Advocates Urgent Steps To Curb Misinformation, Fake News On Social Media
The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the state government, through relevant communication agencies, to take proactive measures to curb the spread of misinformation and fake news on social media, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 electioneering campaigns.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by the lawmaker representing Oluyole State Constituency, Hon. Waheed Akintayo, during plenary on Tuesday.
Presenting the motion titled, “Need for the Executive Arm of Government Through Relevant Communication Agencies to Take Necessary Steps to Curb the Spread of Misinformation and Falsehood on Social Media Ahead of the Electioneering Period,” the lawmaker expressed concern over the growing circulation of unverified information across social media platforms.
According to him, the increasing prevalence of fake news has continued to generate panic, anxiety, and distrust among citizens, posing a threat to public confidence in institutions and the overall stability of society.
He urged the Executive Arm of Government to work through relevant communication agencies and engage critical stakeholders to promote responsible use of social media and address the menace of misinformation before it escalates during the election period.
The motion was seconded by Hon. Adebayo Babajide Gabriel, representing Ibadan North II State Constituency.
In his brief submission, Adebayo condemned what he described as reckless and irresponsible use of social media by self acclaimed political influencers, public commentators and other social media personalities.
He appealed to the state government to collaborate with relevant government agencies at all levels to fashion out measures geared towards curbing such trends.
Also contributing to the debate, Hon. Olusola Owolabi of Ibadan North East II State Constituency supported the motion, stressing the need for greater public awareness and coordinated efforts to discourage the dissemination of false information capable of misleading citizens and undermining public peace.
In his remarks, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, clarified that the intention of the motion was not to suppress freedom of expression or limit citizens’ rights to express their views.
He noted that the Assembly was primarily concerned about the abuse of social media platforms through the deliberate spread of falsehoods and misleading information.
The Speaker commended the sponsor of the motion, describing it as timely and relevant, especially in an era where information plays a critical role in shaping public opinion and decision-making.
“At a time when information is power, it is important for citizens to use social media responsibly,” he said.
The Speaker further emphasized the need for users to verify information before sharing it with others.
Following deliberations, the Speaker put the motion to a voice vote, and it was unanimously adopted by the House.
Before adjournment, Ogundoyin hinted that the Assembly may commence its annual recess within the next one or two weeks.
He therefore urged lawmakers to expedite action on all pending legislative assignments and ensure that reports on outstanding committee works are submitted before the commencement of the recess.
The House subsequently adjourned plenary until Tuesday, June 30.
Western Mirror
