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.
Noble FM reports that the resolution followed the adoption of a 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, sponsored by the lawmaker representing Oluyole State Constituency, Hon. Waheed Akintayo, during plenary on Tuesday.
Presenting the motion, the lawmaker expressed concern over the growing circulation of unverified information across social media platforms, warning that the trend poses a threat to public trust, social harmony, and the integrity of the democratic process.
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.
Following deliberations, the Speaker put the motion to a voice vote, and it was unanimously adopted by the House.
The House subsequently urged relevant government agencies, media stakeholders, civil society organisations, and citizens to collaborate in promoting responsible social media use, fact-checking, and digital literacy as part of efforts to safeguard public discourse ahead of future elections.
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