The Department of Health and Human Services has dismissed the virus claims to launch free nationwide diabetes treatments.
The 73-second video clip, widely shared across multiple social media platforms, claims that Health Minister Ali Putty has announced “an innovative drug that will save everyone from diabetes” and “an innovative drug” that will deliver it freely to the home.
AI Operation
The video began with a scene of a confused crowd, followed by the channel's television presenter Seun Okinbaloye, who announced the free drug, followed by a clip of Pate's Clips, which is said to be checking its availability.
“All Nigerians are shocked after Professor Muhammad Ali Pate announced about revolutionary diabetes medication. People lined up for miles outside the pharmacy and began reaching out as quickly as possible,” Okinbaloy said in a doctor's video.
“Many rely on violence and vandalism, forcing them to intervene in police and detain criminals.”
Cablecheck analyzed the video and observed an inconsistent alignment of the eye and mouth of the video presenter. This is a typical distortion for AI-generated videos.
Further checks are First 3 seconds The video was released from a 2024 clip showing Lagos residents stolen bread.
The Ministry of Health responds
In a statement issued Sunday, Ministry information and spokesman Alaba Balogun described the footage as “false, misleading and maliciously manipulated.”
Balogun said such drugs have not been announced or approved in free nationwide distribution, adding that diabetes care remains part of an ongoing programme being implemented through accredited facilities, in collaboration with state governments and licensed experts.
He added that the department is working with police, the National Food and Drug Management Agency (NAFDAC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to track sources of disinformation.
He urged Nigerians to verify health information from official sources and avoid engaging in fraudulent posts seeking comments and personal information in exchange for medical products.
“The federal government remains committed to moving forward with authentic, evidence-based healthcare solutions for the well-being of all Nigerians,” the statement reads.
