The Osun State Government has announced the establishment of a Cybercrime Action Committee to combat the proliferation of fake news within the state, a move that has raised suspicions among members of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to the Commissioner for Information and Public Engagement, Kolapo Alimi, the decision to form the committee is aimed at creating a more responsible and honest political atmosphere, free from the negative impacts of fake news.
The initiative comes amid escalating social media conflicts between supporters of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the APC, focusing on governance issues and individual party personalities.
The committee, housed in the Ministry of Justice, comprises journalists and legal experts tasked with curbing the spread of fake news and ensuring compliance with relevant laws, including the Cybercrime Act of 2015.
Tajudeen Lawal, the Osun APC Chairman, expressed skepticism about the committee’s intentions, viewing it as a tactic to stifle opposition voices and consolidate power in the hands of the governor.
Lawal criticized the timing of the committee’s formation, alleging it was a response to scrutiny over alleged irregularities in road contract awards. He vowed that the APC would legally challenge any attempts to suppress opposition activities in the state.
The Osun APC accused Governor Adeleke of attempting to deflect attention from alleged corruption scandals within his administration, emphasizing their commitment to holding the government accountable for its actions.
In response to these accusations, the Osun State Government reiterated its commitment to upholding transparency and accountability while combatting the dissemination of false information. The Cybercrime Action Committee is set to commence its operations, focusing on enforcing existing laws to ensure responsible online behavior.
