DHQ debunks AI-generated video falsely portraying Defence Chief

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as fake a video circulating on social media that falsely portrays Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff, and in some instances misrepresents the individual featured as the Chief of Army Staff.

A statement issued on Tuesday by Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, described the video as fabricated, misleading and entirely disconnected from any official communication, statement or engagement involving either the Chief of Defence Staff or the Chief of Army Staff.

According to the military high command, the video is part of a deliberate effort to spread misinformation and create confusion about the leadership and activities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“The Defence Headquarters categorically states that the video is false, misleading and does not represent any official communication, position, statement or engagement involving either the Chief of Defence Staff or the Chief of Army Staff,” the statement said.

The DHQ urged members of the public to disregard the content, stressing that it did not originate from any official military source.

It added that preliminary assessments revealed clear signs of digital manipulation driven by artificial intelligence technology.

Military authorities warned that the growing misuse of digital tools and social media platforms to fabricate content involving senior military officials poses a serious threat to public trust and national security.

The Defence Headquarters expressed concern over what it described as an emerging trend in which individuals exploit modern technology to create and circulate false content, particularly involving high-ranking military officers.

It noted that such actions not only spread misinformation but also risk undermining public confidence in the military and disrupting ongoing national security efforts.

The military also cautioned social media influencers, bloggers, content creators and online commentators against sharing or amplifying unverified military-related information for the sake of online engagement.

“The quest for online visibility and engagement must not come at the expense of truth, national security and responsible journalism,” the statement added.

The Defence Headquarters further advised journalists and members of the public to verify military-related information through official communication channels before publication or dissemination.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria said it remains focused on its constitutional responsibilities and will continue working to safeguard the country’s sovereignty, peace and stability.