Buhari dead? Fake news of ailing President’s demise circulate online again
Sunday’s internet was dominated by reports Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari had passed away.
It was also rumoured that Buhari, if not dead, could be on life support. The obviously fake news was circulated in WhatsApp groups. People were so worried they called Buhari’s media aides to ask is the news was true.
Presidential spokesperson Garba Shehu has urged Nigerians to disregard the fake news.
“Baseless rumors are trending again that an unpleasant thing has happened to our beloved President, Muhammadu Buhari,” Shehu said in a statemen.
“If you have received this information on WhatsApp or Facebook, disregard it because it is plain lies spread by vested interests to create panic.
“Nothing unpleasant has happened to the President. No cause for apprehension. Thanks for the many calls.”
Buhari, for the second time this year, is receiving medical treatment in London. The Presidency said the President will not return to Nigeria till doctors say so.
