The Federal Government has dismissed a viral social
media video alleging that a “revolutionary drug” capable of curing diabetes
would be distributed free of charge to Nigerians.
In a statement posted on Sunday via the Ministry of
Health and Social Welfare’s official X handle, Alaba Balogun, Head of
Information and Public Relations, described the video as false, misleading,
and maliciously manipulated.
According to Balogun, the attention of the Ministry
was drawn to the video, which claims that the Coordinating Minister of Health
and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, announced a breakthrough
drug that would “save everyone from diabetes” and be delivered directly to
homes. The footage also appeared to depict chaotic scenes at pharmacies and
police intervention to control crowds allegedly seeking the drug.
“The Ministry categorically states that this video is
false, misleading, and maliciously manipulated,” Balogun said.
The Ministry clarified that the footage was made up of
altered clips from a Channels TV news broadcast and digitally doctored segments
from the Minister’s public appearances.
Key clarifications from the Ministry
include:
1.
No such ‘revolutionary diabetes drug’
has been announced or approved for free nationwide distribution.
2.
The Coordinating Minister has never
made any such statement.
3.
Nigerians are urged to verify health
information from official sources and avoid fraudulent posts requesting
personal details in exchange for medical products.
4.
Diabetes care remains part of the
Ministry’s ongoing non-communicable diseases programme, delivered through
accredited health facilities in partnership with State Governments and licensed
professionals.
Investigation Underway
The Ministry disclosed that it is working with law enforcement and regulatory
bodies, including NAFDAC, the Nigerian Police Force, and the National
Broadcasting Commission, to trace the source of the misinformation and take
appropriate legal action.
Public Advisory
The statement urged citizens to seek health information only from credible,
verified platforms such as the Ministry’s official website, verified social
media channels, and accredited healthcare providers.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to genuine,
evidence-based healthcare solutions for all Nigerians and assured that
public updates will always be communicated through transparent and credible
channels.
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