The Anambra State Government has dismissed a viral video in which the son of the governor, Ozonna Soludo, was seen campaigning for the candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, describing it as false and misinformation.
In the viral video, Ozonna was seen dancing to music promoting Obi, with the logo and picture of the NDC candidate superimposed on it.
However, in a press statement issued on Tuesday, the Media Assistant to the Anambra State First Lady, Dan Ezeigwe, said the video was falsely attributed to Ozonna and did not originate from him.
The statement read, “The video being mischievously circulated and falsely attributed to Ozonna Soludo, son of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, did not originate from him. Any attempt to associate him with the video is false, malicious, and entirely unacceptable. We are well aware of an individual identified as Kelechi Simon, reportedly a medical radiographer residing in Delta State, who has been linked to the origin and circulation of this malicious video. Let it be clearly understood that we are watching this development closely. Those peddling this misinformation are hereby warned to desist immediately. The laws against misinformation and libel remain in force, and anyone who engages in unlawful conduct should be prepared to face the full consequences.
“The internet is not a lawless territory, and political desperation is no defence against the law.
“Everyone is free to campaign for their preferred candidate, express political opinions, and engage in legitimate political debate. However, such freedom must not be abused through fabricated stories, malicious propaganda, or deliberate falsehoods.
“Let this serve as a severe warning. Verify before you publish. Think before you share. Those who deliberately spread falsehoods should not assume they are beyond the reach of the law. A word is enough for the wise!”
Punch