Fake news in 2019 nigeria election

The 2019 Nigerian presidential election was marred by several instances of fake news and disinformation. Here are some examples:

1. False reports of election cancellation: On February 23, 2019, the day of the presidential election, several fake news outlets reported that the election had been cancelled due to violence and other issues. This caused widespread panic and confusion among voters.
2. Fake news about INEC server: The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was accused of manipulating the election results through a supposed server. However, INEC denied the existence of such a server, and the claim was later debunked by fact-checking organizations.
3. False reports of vote buying: There were numerous reports of vote buying and rigging during the election, but many of these claims were exaggerated or fabricated. For example, a video circulating on social media showed a man allegedly buying votes, but it was later revealed to be a staged scene.
4. Fake news about election observers: Some fake news outlets reported that election observers from the European Union and other organizations had been arrested or intimidated by security agents. However, these reports were later denied by the observers themselves.
5. False reports of violence: There were reports of violence and killings during the election, but many of these claims were exaggerated or fabricated. For example, a report by a fake news outlet claimed that over 100 people had been killed in a single day, but the actual number of fatalities was significantly lower.
6. Fake news about election results: After the election, fake news outlets reported that the results had been manipulated or that the winner had been declared prematurely. For example, a fake news outlet reported that the election had been won by a candidate who had not even participated in the election.

Some of the most prominent fake news outlets in Nigeria during the 2019 election included:

1. Naij.com: This website was known for publishing false and sensationalized news stories, including reports of election cancellation and vote buying.
2. Lindaikejisblog: This blog was popular for publishing false news stories, including reports of election rigging and violence.
3. Nigerian Tribune: This online newspaper was accused of publishing false news stories, including reports of election cancellation and vote buying.
4. The Nation Online: This online newspaper was also accused of publishing false news stories, including reports of election rigging and violence.

The spread of fake news during the 2019 Nigerian election was facilitated by social media platforms, which allowed false information to spread quickly and widely. The Nigerian government and fact-checking organizations have since taken steps to combat the spread of fake news and promote media literacy.