Fact-check Methodology

Anyone can ask for a check on a public post that makes a claim of fact. Our editors also publish fact-checks on claims spreading widely in Nigeria. We do not check opinions, jokes or predictions as if they were facts.

A claim is first researched against sources we rate for reliability and against fact-checks already published by other organisations. If the evidence clearly settles it, the person who asked gets the answer. If the evidence is not clear, or the claim is serious, it goes to our staff.

Before staff publish a verdict on a post, its author is told and can reply. Publishing waits for that reply or for 24 hours. A verdict shows the sources it relies on, and we prefer original sources such as official records, documents and first-hand accounts.

True: the claim is accurate. Mostly true: accurate, but missing a detail that matters. Misleading: it contains some truth but gives a wrong impression, for example by leaving out context, using edited media, or presenting old information as new. False: the claim is wrong. Satire: made as a joke, not as a claim of fact. Unverified: there is not enough evidence yet to say either way. Disputed: credible sources disagree.

If you posted the claim, you can reply to a published verdict with new evidence; that reopens the check for staff to review again. When a verdict changes, we update the same page and follow our Corrections Policy.

D.I.N. is operated by Creative Natives Inc.. For questions about a fact-check, email hello@thisisnaija.com.ng. Please include the page or feature concerned, your D.I.N. handle where relevant, and enough information for us to identify and respond to your request.

We may ask for information reasonably necessary to verify identity, prevent fraud, protect other people, or comply with law. Do not send passwords, payment-card details, government identification, or other sensitive information unless we specifically request a secure method for it.