Stop spreading fake news, Olubadan is alive – Ibadan family head

The Mogaji (family head) of Omotara Okugbaja compound in Ita Baale Ori Okiti in Ibadan North East Local Government Area of Oyo state, Chief Oladejo Moruf Rufai has enjoined media houses to first confirm information from the authorities before dishing out such information to the general public.

Rufai made this declaration while responding to a rumor which filtered the social media that the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin has joined his ancestors.

Recall that a rumor filtered the social media Monday evening that the traditional ruler has joined his ancestors.

But, Rufai while reacting, enjoined media houses to ensure that they verify information especially information that has to do with death before such information is being dished out to the general public.

Rufai who described the rumor of the death of the monarch as handiwork of promoters of fake news, appealed to journalists and media houses to always verify information before going to press.

“This is to inform the general public that the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin is hale and healthy.

“For the avoidance of doubt, we need to put the record straight. The Olubadan is alive. I have been receiving several calls and messages from people both home and abroad that the Olubadan has joined his ancestors. I, the Mogaji Omotora Okugbaja wishes to tell the general public that what they are saying is not correct.

“I want to appeal to the media houses to ensure that they verify information especially information that has to do with death before such information is being dished out to the public.

“Journalists ought to know that they have to confirm information from the authorities before they report such thing. If you are in doubt, it is expected that you leave out.

“Spreading of fake news is dangerous. It can lead to crisis. We should desist from spreading of fake news”.