…Warns against rising tide of fake news
By Sodiq Adelakun
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has dismissed viral photos circulating on social media allegedly showing him with United States President Donald Trump and National Union of Road Transport Workers leader, Mr Musiliu Akinsanya (MC Oluomo).
In a statement titled “Clarification on Fake News and Photos” and posted on his official X handle on Wednesday, Obi described the images as “fake and doctored,” insisting he never held such meetings.
He said: “One of such images purports to show me with US President Donald Trump, alongside a fabricated claim that he praised me. Another seeks to depict me with MC Oluomo in his office. Let me state categorically that both pictures are fake and doctored, and the accompanying stories are entirely false.”
The former Anambra State governor said the publications were clear examples of the “persistent dangers of fake news and disinformation”, cautioning Nigerians and the international community to remain vigilant.
He warned: “I urge everyone to verify information before sharing, and to resist propaganda designed to mislead. If I had attended such meetings, I would have personally disclosed them.”
Obi stressed that his political philosophy was not built on “cheap publicity” but on tackling the country’s pressing challenges.
He added: “My politics is not about seeking praise or cheap publicity, but about addressing Nigeria’s challenges, including insecurity, poverty, education, healthcare, and the rule of law.”
