Fmr Minister Lai Mohammed Reveals How Fake News Nearly Ruined His Marriage

Former Minister of Information and National Orientation, Lai Mohammed, recently shared a personal account of how fake news circulating on social media almost jeopardized his four-decade-long marriage. The revelation came during an event commemorating the 90th birthday of Wole Soyinka, Africa’s esteemed Nobel laureate for literature.

Speaking on the theme “The Media in the Age of Disinformation,” Mohammed emphasized the pervasive challenges of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation during his tenure as minister. He recounted the alarming moment when his wife confronted him about a false rumor circulating on social media regarding overseas accounts allegedly held by government officials.

Mohammed vividly described the late-night encounter with his wife, who had been disturbed by the fabricated claim. Despite his efforts to reassure her of the falsehood, the impact of the fake news extended beyond their personal lives, affecting their social circle and reputation.

In a candid narrative, Mohammed debunked the absurdity of the allegations by meticulously explaining budget allocations and financial constraints within the government. He highlighted the damaging repercussions of fake news, which not only strained personal relationships but also undermined public trust and democratic processes.

Drawing from his experience, Mohammed underscored the urgent need for proactive measures to combat the proliferation of fake news. He emphasized the responsibility of social media platforms and intermediaries in curbing the spread of false information while safeguarding freedom of expression.

Advocating for robust regulatory frameworks, Mohammed called for accountability among social media platforms to prioritize the integrity of information over profit motives. He urged decisive action to detect and remove harmful content, emphasizing the pivotal role of the media in preserving credibility and combating disinformation.