Dr Olusola Odumosu, Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSDC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called on Nigerians to practice responsible communication.
Speaking on the sidelines of a public awareness Road Show on Saturday in Abuja, Odumosu
warned that fake news and inflammatory posts on social media exacerbate insecurity across the country.
He cautioned that the spread of unverified media content harms Nigeria’s national image and endangers lives.
“In combating insecurity, it is very germane that we create this awareness because there is so much misinformation, miscommunication, and various forms of propaganda that are not good for our collective well-being,” Odumosu stated.
The commandant highlighted the growing trend of individuals recirculating outdated footage to incite panic.
“Somebody will just wake up, bring a 20-year-old video about a past crisis, and claim it is happening right now in a particular state. Such irresponsible communication can heat up the polity.
“Because our people don’t go to the extent of verifying information, they jump to conclusions, which often results in attacks on innocent citizens,” he said.
Odumosu urged citizens to exercise restraint before sharing posts online, particularly in light of the rapid spread of viral content on social media platforms.
He explained that the sensitisation walk was organised by the FCT Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), led by its Chairman, Mr Stanley Ogadigo, to build public awareness ahead of the upcoming World Public Relations Forum (WPRF).
He said that the walk was intended to amplify positive messaging and encourage factual information dissemination nationwide.
The newsmen report that the walk began from the Zoological Garden in Area 1 to Radio House in Garki Area 8.