The Lagos State Government has accused some social media users of spreading false flood-related content to mislead the public, calling out an influencer for allegedly posting a photograph from Accra, Ghana, and presenting it as a flooding incident in Lagos.
The alarm was raised on Sunday by the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who condemned what he described as attempts to politicise flooding and circulate misleading information during the rainy season.
Addressing a social media user identified as Mr. Nedu (@Hhonor_), Wahab said: “Using your handle to spread misinformation by sharing a photograph of the Accra flood and presenting it as an incident in Lagos is both disingenuous and misleading. We encourage you to verify information before sharing it, as the dissemination of falsehoods only misleads the public and undermines genuine efforts to address real issues.”
The commissioner said the government had observed with concern that some individuals were pushing misleading narratives by circulating flood visuals from other states and countries as though they were recorded in Lagos.
He stated that the state government keeps watch on developments across Lagos and responds to reports and complaints received through different media platforms.
Wahab expressed concern that some bloggers and social media influencers deliberately publish false or misleading content just to attract online engagement, while ignoring the genuine concerns of residents and property owners who require urgent government attention.
He appealed to all stakeholders to handle matters affecting Lagos residents with seriousness, responsibility and sensitivity, stressing that accurate information remains necessary for tackling challenges and finding lasting solutions.
The commissioner also reminded residents that while freedom of expression is protected under the Constitution and political participation is part of democracy, every right comes with responsibilities and must be exercised within the limits of the law.
He urged members of the public to verify information before sharing it and to conduct public discussions with responsibility, civility and respect for the collective interest of Lagos State, Centre of Excellence, and its residents.