The Nigeria Customs Service has issued a strong warning to members of the public over the circulation of false information on social media, cautioning that the viral messages currently making the rounds did not originate from the Service and should be disregarded in their entirety.
In a statement released on its official X handle on Monday, the Service expressed concern over the growing spread of misleading content, stressing that such messages are fake and capable of misleading unsuspecting Nigerians if not properly addressed.
The Customs Service urged citizens to rely strictly on its verified communication platforms for authentic and up-to-date information, emphasising that official channels remain the most reliable source for accurate details regarding its operations, policies, and public announcements.
“Members of the public are advised to disregard this fake message and rely on updates published through our verified platforms,” the statement noted, reinforcing its position on the need for the public to exercise caution when consuming information online.
The Service further warned that the spread of unverified and misleading content poses significant risks, including the creation of unnecessary panic, the spread of misinformation, and the erosion of public trust in official institutions. It added that the responsibility to curb misinformation lies not only with authorities but also with members of the public.
According to the Service, Nigerians are encouraged to always verify information before sharing it, especially in an era where social media has become a primary source of news and communication. It noted that forwarding or reposting unverified content can contribute to the rapid spread of false narratives and worsen public confusion.
The Nigeria Customs Service reiterated that it regularly releases official statements to correct false claims circulating online, particularly those related to customs procedures, import duties, taxes, and penalties. These corrections, it said, are necessary to ensure that the public receives accurate guidance and does not fall victim to scams or misinformation.
In recent times, several fake messages purporting to originate from the Customs Service have circulated widely across various social media platforms. Many of these messages falsely claim to announce changes in customs regulations, introduce new fees, or impose penalties, often causing anxiety and confusion among individuals and businesses.
The Service stressed that such deceptive messages are designed to exploit the public, and urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and cautious when encountering suspicious content online.
It also encouraged the public to follow only its verified social media handles and official website for legitimate updates, advising that any information not communicated through these platforms should be treated with skepticism until confirmed.
The warning highlights the broader challenge of misinformation in Nigeria’s digital space, where fake news continues to spread rapidly, often outpacing efforts to correct it. Authorities have repeatedly raised concerns about the impact of such misinformation on public perception, policy understanding, and national stability.
As part of efforts to address the issue, the Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and timely communication, assuring Nigerians that it will continue to provide accurate information through its official channels.
The Service called on the public to join in the effort to combat fake news by staying informed, verifying sources, and avoiding the uncritical sharing of unverified content, noting that a well-informed public is essential for maintaining trust and order in society.
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