FACT-CHECK: Are Nigerian Soldiers Protecting Cattle Instead of Citizens in Yelewata Benue State as Shown in a Viral Video?
CLAIM: A viral video circulating on social media, particularly on Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp alleges that the Nigerian Army is protecting cattle in Yelewata community, Benue State, instead of safeguarding human lives.
In the video, a voice is heard saying in Pidgin English: “See how Army de guide NAMA (Another name for meat) for Fulani and they no fit guide Benue people.” Another voice, sounding like a field reporter holding a CCC News-branded microphone, says, “The security the locals couldn’t get is what cows are getting.”
The footage also shows cattle on a road, flanked by individuals in military camouflage and green face caps, as well as bystanders and some young boys appearing to wear military outfits. A signpost in the background identifies the location as Yelewata in Benue State.
The video has generated widespread outrage online, with many Nigerians condemning what appears to be preferential treatment for livestock over citizens.
Benue State has been a flashpoint for herder-farmer conflicts, resulting in numerous fatalities and displacements over the years. The crisis often pits indigenous farming communities against nomadic herders, with accusations of land encroachment and inadequate security responses. This environment makes the state highly vulnerable to the spread of fake news and provocative media content.
Verification: PRNigeria‘s fact-check team launched a verification exercise to ascertain the authenticity of the video and the claim being circulated.
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A search showed the video began trending on June 18, 2025. It gained traction across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
Using AI detection and video forensic tools like InVID and Deepware, PRNigeria discovered that the video shows signs of artificial generation. The supposed soldiers, bystanders, and even the livestock exhibited digital distortions and unnatural movement patterns associated with deepfake content. Deepware rated the content 98% positive for AI.
Further visual analysis reveal that the uniforms seen on the individuals in the video do not match the standard Nigerian Army camouflage, and the green face caps are inconsistent with military-issued gear. Additionally, facial features and shadows lacked consistency, typical red flags in AI-manipulated visuals.
PRNigeria employed media monitoring and official sources, but no reputable media outlet reported the alleged incident. Furthermore, the Nigerian Army has neither acknowledged the video nor issued any statement suggesting their involvement in protecting cattle in Benue.
Conclusion: After thorough investigation, findings by PRNigeria reveals that the viral video alleging that the Nigerian Army is protecting cattle in Benue State is AI-generated visual. The video is a product of deepfake technology and is designed to provoke outrage and manipulate public perception amidst ongoing security tensions in the region.
Verdict: FALSE!
The claim that the Nigerian Army is guarding cattle in Benue State as depicted in the viral video is false. The video is digitally manipulated using AI tools and does not represent any real-life incident.
By PRNigeria
