The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has strongly refuted reports linking a recent aircraft incident in Asaba/Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, to Dunamis International Gospel Centre, describing the publication as false, baseless, and malicious.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the group reacted to a report published by The Cable News and subsequently circulated by several online platforms, including Instablog, under the headline: “Exclusive: Aircraft in Asaba Incident Linked to Dunamis Church as FG Arrests Overaged Pilot.”
According to the CCYF, an independent review and inquiry into the matter revealed that Dunamis International Gospel Centre does not own any private jet or aircraft, contrary to claims contained in the publication.
“The allegation that the aircraft involved in the Asaba/Ogwashi-Uku incident belongs to Dunamis Church is entirely false and misleading,” the statement said. “The church has consistently maintained that it does not own a private aircraft, despite having the capacity to acquire one if the need arises for its evangelical activities.”
The forum further accused the publishers of spreading misinformation capable of misleading members of the public and damaging the reputation of the church and its leadership.
CCYF noted that the dissemination of false information could attract legal consequences under Nigerian law. The group cited provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, particularly Section 24, which criminalizes the intentional publication and circulation of false information capable of causing public anxiety, injury, hatred, intimidation, or reputational damage.
The statement also referenced Section 59 of the Criminal Code Act, which criminalizes the publication of false reports likely to cause fear, alarm, or public disturbance, as well as provisions relating to defamation under Sections 373 to 375 of the Criminal Code.
The forum urged journalists, bloggers, and media organizations to verify sensitive information through official channels before publication, emphasizing the need for responsible journalism and adherence to professional ethics.
“This disclaimer serves as a formal notice to the public to disregard the publication and its contents. We encourage all media practitioners and content creators to verify information from credible and official sources before dissemination,” the statement added.
CCYF further stated that those responsible for publishing and circulating the alleged false report may be held accountable through appropriate legal channels should it be established that the information was knowingly fabricated or maliciously disseminated.
The group advised members of the public seeking clarification on the matter to rely on official communication channels of Dunamis International Gospel Centre for accurate information.
The statement was signed by James Paul Adama, Convener of the Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF), Abuja.
