Nigeria denies spying on social media users

The Nigerian ministry of communications has denied accusations that it has been spying on mobile phone and social media users, after a fake statement went viral.

The statement, which caused panic among users, claimed that all mobile phones were connected to the ministry’s systems and that government officials were monitoring conversations.

 A spokesperson for Communication Minister Isa Ali Pantami has advised Nigerians to “disregard the message and delete” it upon receipt. 

The statement was shared to Facebook and Twitter and explained that the ministry had initially chosen to ignore the message, “so as not to give undue attention to the originators”. 

“But its spread, the efforts of well-meaning Nigerians to get clarity and the need to ensure that all Nigerians are properly informed, has necessitated this disclaimer/public awareness”, the message continued. 

Photo: Twitter