Did Liverpool fans in Nigeria hold procession for Diogo Jota?
Diogo Jota’s career highlights: From Portugal to Liverpool
A viral photo making the rounds on social media platforms, especially Facebook and WhatsApp, has sparked debate among football fans in Nigeria and beyond. The image claims to show a procession held by Nigerian Liverpool supporters in honour of the club’s Portuguese forward, Diogo Jota. However, a detailed investigation by DUBAWA, West Africa’s independent fact-checking organisation, has confirmed that the claim is false.
According to the viral posts, a group of fans dressed in red and carrying a banner were reportedly celebrating Jota’s recent performances for Liverpool. The photo quickly gained traction, with some users praising the passion of Nigerian football fans, while others questioned its authenticity. The image was widely interpreted as a public fan tribute, further fuelled by misleading captions.
DUBAWA’s verification process involved the use of reverse image search tools and consultation with local sources. It was discovered that the image had no connection to Liverpool Football Club, Diogo Jota, or any football event. Instead, it was traced back to a religious or community procession in Nigeria that was completely unrelated to sports.
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This incident highlights a growing concern about the misuse of images online to support false narratives, especially when blended with popular culture or trending topics like football. While some posts may have been intended as satire or humor, many shared the image without disclaimers, blurring the line between joke and misinformation.
DUBAWA warned that even seemingly harmless posts can contribute to the spread of fake news, especially when widely shared without verification. They urged social media users to apply critical thinking and always verify the authenticity of viral claims—particularly those involving public events, recognisable personalities, or viral trends.
With football fandom running deep in Nigeria, especially for Premier League clubs like Liverpool, it’s easy for fabricated or exaggerated stories to resonate emotionally. But as DUBAWA emphasized, it’s crucial to separate facts from fiction to prevent the further erosion of online trust.
Full report: DUBAWA – Jota Procession Claim Debunked.
