The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed a video circulating on social media platforms that falsely portrays the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and, in some instances, misrepresents the Chief of Army Staff, describing the content as fabricated and misleading.
In a statement signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, the DHQ said the video did not represent any official communication, engagement, or position of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and warned that it was a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and create confusion about military leadership.
The military authorities further clarified that the individuals depicted in the video were falsely linked to the CDS and the Chief of Army Staff, noting that the content bears clear indications of digital manipulation, likely generated using artificial intelligence tools.
“The video is false, misleading and does not represent any official communication, statement or engagement involving either the Chief of Defence Staff or the Chief of Army Staff,” the statement read.
The DHQ advised members of the public to disregard the footage in its entirety, stressing that it did not originate from any official military source.
It expressed concern over the growing misuse of digital technology and social media platforms to fabricate content involving senior military officers, warning that such practices could undermine public trust and national security.
The Defence Headquarters also cautioned social media influencers, bloggers and content creators against sharing or amplifying unverified military-related materials, urging them to prioritise accuracy and responsible reporting over online engagement.
It called on media practitioners and the public to verify all information through official DHQ communication channels before dissemination.
Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the Armed Forces of Nigeria said it remains focused on its constitutional mandate of defending the country’s sovereignty, peace and territorial integrity.
