Way before deep fakes became a cause for concern, journalism in Nigeria was already on trial. Fake news and propaganda often managed to go viral, amassing unbelievable numbers of views and reshares. From health myths to divisive political narratives, misinformation has repeatedly caused panic, tension, and even harm in real life.
To remind you of the importance of fact-checking before sharing any piece of information, here are five outrageous lies that sparked chaos both online and offline.
Ebola Salt Water Myth
During the 2014 Ebola outbreak in Nigeria, a dangerous rumour spread, claiming that drinking or bathing in salt water could prevent the contraction of the disease. This misinformation, reportedly attributed to so-called “prophets,” led to mass panic. People rushed to drink concentrated salt solutions, leading to cases of dehydration, stomach issues, and even death.
The chaos remains a stark reminder of how misinformation can worsen public health crises, turning fear into harmful actions.
The Fibroid and Women’s Sexuality Myth
This harmful myth suggested that fibroids—a common health condition in women—were caused by sexual activity or “immorality.” The myth ultimately gained traction online, perpetuating harmful gender stereotypes and creating a stigma around women’s health.
While medical professionals have debunked this claim multiple times, its persistence shows just how misinformation can distract from scientific facts and fuel shame, making it harder for women to seek proper medical care.
COVID-19 Vaccine and the 5G Conspiracy
During the COVID-19 pandemic, conspiracy theories flooded the internet, with one of the most bizarre being the claim that 5G technology was responsible for the virus. Coupled with false narratives that the vaccines were a form of population control, this wave of misinformation fueled widespread vaccine hesitancy. In Nigeria, this directly impacted vaccination rates and undermined public health efforts to curb the virus’s spread.
Conspiracy about Igbos taking over Lagos
During the 2023 general elections in Nigeria, a viral narrative accused the Igbo community of plotting to “take over” Lagos. This baseless political misinformation stoked ethnic tensions, deepening divides in a nation already grappling with unity. The fabricated narrative was amplified by partisan social media users, leading to real-life confrontations that led to injuries and online hostility that persisted even after the elections.
Fake Health Remedies for Serious Illnesses: Miracle Mineral Solution
Miracle Mineral Solution (MMS) was touted as a cure for various serious illnesses, including HIV, cancer, and recently, COVID-19. MMS is essentially an industrial bleach known chemically as chlorine dioxide. This narrative was cleared by US Food Drug and Administration and NAFDAC.
How to Spot and Combat Misinformation
Navigating today’s digital landscape requires critical thinking and vigilance. Here are actionable tips to help you avoid falling for fake news
- Check the Source: Always verify whether the information comes from a credible, established source.
- Cross-Reference Facts: Look for confirmation of the claim on other reliable platforms or from experts.
- Look out for emotional manipulation: If a post seems designed to provoke anger, fear, or outrage, pause and question its motives.
- Avoid Sharing Without Verification: Resist the urge to reshare information until you’ve confirmed its accuracy.
Misinformation thrives when people fail to think critically about the content they consume and share. By actively questioning and fact-checking, you can help curb the spread of fake news and foster a more discerning digital culture.
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