The Lagos State Police Command has denied allegations that its officers teargassed pensioners during a protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly, describing a viral image circulating online as artificially generated.
The controversy began after reports emerged on social media alleging that security operatives used tear gas on retired workers who had gathered to demand the payment of their pension entitlements and other welfare benefits. The claims were accompanied by images that quickly gained attention online, sparking criticism and concern from members of the public.
Reacting to the allegations, the Lagos State Police Command stated that its officers acted professionally throughout the protest and did not deploy tear gas against the demonstrators. The command further insisted that one of the widely shared images purportedly showing pensioners being teargassed was not authentic but was generated using Artificial Intelligence (AI).
According to the police, preliminary findings indicated that the image did not accurately represent events at the protest venue and was being used to spread misinformation. Authorities urged the public to verify information before sharing content online, warning that manipulated images and false narratives could create unnecessary tension.
The command also maintained that security personnel were present at the scene primarily to ensure law and order and to protect both protesters and other members of the public.
Meanwhile, the incident has continued to generate mixed reactions, with some Nigerians calling for an independent review of the events to establish the facts surrounding the protest and the claims made by both the pensioners and the police.
The situation highlights growing concerns about the use of AI-generated content and the challenges authorities face in distinguishing genuine visual evidence from digitally manipulated material.
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