SULTAN OF SOKOTO BRANDS SOCIAL MEDIA A “TERRORIST ORGANIZATION” OVER FAKE NEWS AND SECURITY FEARS

 

SULTAN OF SOKOTO BRANDS SOCIAL MEDIA A “TERRORIST ORGANIZATION” OVER FAKE NEWS AND SECURITY FEARS 

Photo credit//Sultan of sokoto//naijaPals.com

In a powerful and thought-provoking statement, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has openly criticized the growing influence of social media in Nigeria. The respected traditional ruler did not mince words, describing social media as nothing short of a "terrorist organization" due to the role it plays in spreading misinformation, fake news, and inciting unrest across the country.

The Sultan made this bold declaration on Tuesday, during the 7th Executive Committee meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, held in Maiduguri, Borno State. His remarks have since sparked conversation across the country, especially as Nigeria continues to grapple with the twin challenges of insecurity and misinformation.

According to the Sultan, the unchecked spread of false information on social media platforms has become a serious threat to national stability. He emphasized that individuals often create and circulate stories from the comfort of their homes, without verifying facts or considering the potential harm their posts can cause. This, he argued, is a dangerous trend capable of worsening Nigeria’s already delicate security situation.

His Eminence called on security agencies to take the matter seriously and treat the issue of social media misinformation as they would any other security threat. He urged the Nigerian government and law enforcement to recognize the influence of social media in shaping public opinion and fueling tension, especially in a country as diverse and sensitive as Nigeria.

“What happened has happened, it cannot be corrected through social media. That’s one terrorist organization — social media. Social media is a terrorist organization,” the Sultan stressed, pointing out the way fake news can mislead and create panic. He lamented the ease with which misinformation spreads, noting that many people tend to believe everything they read online without seeking confirmation from credible sources.

Beyond the topic of social media, the Sultan also used the platform to address the ongoing security crisis in Plateau State and other troubled regions across Nigeria. Expressing deep concern, he described the recent rise in violent attacks as both alarming and heartbreaking, emphasizing the need for swift and decisive action from the government and security agencies.

Meanwhile, Amnesty International has also raised the alarm about the escalating violence in Plateau State. In a statement released on Monday, the international human rights organization revealed that the death toll from the latest attacks has now climbed to 54. The group further reported that countless residents have been displaced, fleeing their homes in fear of future attacks, and now live in a state of uncertainty and despair.

As the country battles these rising challenges, the Sultan’s comments shine a spotlight on the dual issues of misinformation and insecurity, both of which threaten national peace and unity. His call for proactive measures against the misuse of social media comes at a time when the digital space is growing increasingly influential, with millions of Nigerians depending on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and Instagram for news and updates.

For many, the Sultan's statement serves as a wake-up call, urging Nigerians to think critically about the information they consume and share online. As misinformation continues to pose a real threat to peace and security, the responsibility lies with both the government and the people to promote truth, fact-checking, and accountability in the digital space.