Defence Headquarters Debunks Fake Video of CDS, Warns Against AI-Generated Misinformation

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed a viral video circulating on social media purportedly showing the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, describing it as fake and digitally manipulated.

DHQ also said some versions of the video falsely identified the individual featured as the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, stressing that the content did not originate from any official military source.

In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, on Monday, the military said the video was fabricated and designed to mislead the public about the activities and leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“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.

According to the Defence Headquarters, preliminary assessment of the footage revealed clear signs of digital manipulation driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI), warning members of the public against relying on or sharing the content.

The military expressed concern over the growing use of digital technologies and social media platforms to create and circulate fake content involving senior military officers, noting that such actions could undermine public trust and negatively affect national security efforts.

DHQ urged social media influencers, bloggers, content creators and online commentators to refrain from sharing or amplifying unverified military-related information.

It also advised media organisations and members of the public to verify information through official Defence Headquarters communication channels before publication or dissemination.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to its constitutional responsibilities, assuring Nigerians that the Armed Forces would continue efforts to protect the country’s sovereignty, peace and security.