The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has reacted to a video circulating on social media claiming that Minister Muhammad Ali Pate has announced a “revolutionary drug” that will “save everyone from diabetes,” to be delivered free to homes. The video also purports to show chaotic scenes at pharmacies and police intervention to manage crowds seeking this alleged drug.

The footage features altered clips of a Channels TV news broadcast and digitally doctored segments of the Coordinating Minister’s public appearances.

The Ministry categorically stated that the video is false, misleading, and maliciously manipulated. It said the claims therein do not originate from the Ministry and do not reflect any official position, announcement, or programme of the Federal Government.

The Ministry, in a statement signed by Alaba Balogun, Head Information and Public Relations, revealed that no such “revolutionary diabetes drug” has been announced or approved for free nationwide distribution.

It said the minister has not made any such statement as purported in the doctored video.

"The public is advised to exercise extreme caution, verify information from official sources, and avoid engaging with fraudulent posts that solicit comments or personal details in exchange for medical products.

"Diabetes care and treatment remain part of the Ministry’s ongoing non-communicable diseases programme, which is implemented through accredited health facilities in partnership with State Governments and licensed medical professionals.

"The Ministry is working with law enforcement and regulatory agencies, including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Broadcasting Commission, to investigate the source of this misinformation and take appropriate action.

"We urge Nigerians to obtain health information only from credible, verified channels, including the official website of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, our verified social media handles, and accredited healthcare providers.
The Federal Government remains committed to advancing genuine, evidence-based healthcare solutions for the well-being of all Nigerians and will continue to keep the public informed through transparent, credible communications," the statement read.

ASA