The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued a warning to Nigerians about the dangers of spreading misinformation and propaganda that could exacerbate insecurity and lead to attacks on innocent citizens. This warning was given by the Commandant of the NSCDC Federal Capital Territory Command, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, during a nationwide roadshow organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in Abuja.
Dr. Odumosu expressed concern about the spread of unverified information on social media, which he believes can create panic, heat the polity, and encourage criminal activities such as banditry and kidnapping. He cited an example of an old video being shared as current, which could lead to unnecessary chaos and attacks on innocent people.
The NSCDC Commandant urged Nigerians, particularly young people active on social media, to communicate responsibly and avoid sharing content that could provoke violence, banditry, and kidnapping. He emphasized the importance of verifying information before sharing it to prevent panic and confusion.
The warning was echoed by the Chairman of the National Planning Committee for the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), Dr. Suleiman Haruna, who called for greater responsibility in the use of social media, especially with the growing influence of artificial intelligence. The WPRF's theme, "Responsible Communications: Voice of the World," aims to address concerns over information integrity and the misuse of communication platforms.
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) is hosting the World Public Relations Forum in Abuja, which is expected to attract about 3,000 delegates from 126 member countries of the Global Alliance. The event is being organised in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation and the NIPR.
The Chairman of the NIPR FCT Chapter, Stanley Ogadigo, described Nigeria's hosting of the forum as a major reputation-building opportunity for the country. He urged Nigerians and corporate organisations to support the event, which aims to reshape Nigeria's image before the international community.
The Presidency has assured the organisers of its support for the event, with the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, giving the assurance when he received members of the WPRF Abuja 2026 Planning Committee at the State House.
Key points
- The NSCDC warns Nigerians against spreading misinformation and fake videos that could worsen insecurity and trigger attacks.
- The World Public Relations Forum aims to address growing concerns over information integrity and the misuse of communication platforms.
- Nigeria is hosting the World Public Relations Forum, a major reputation-building opportunity for the country.
