Sokoto, Nigeria — The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has strongly condemned the misuse of social media platforms, describing them as a “terrorist organisation” during a public address on Wednesday. The traditional ruler called on Nigerian security agencies to take proactive steps in curbing the growing threat of misinformation and harmful content circulated online.
Sultan’s Comments Spark Nationwide Debate.
Speaking at an event captured in a viral video posted by News Central, the Sultan expressed concern over the rise of false narratives and fabricated stories shared on social media platforms.
“Social media is a terrorist organisation. Somebody sits in the comfort of their home and manufactures stories that are completely untrue,” the Sultan said.
Call for Action Against Online Misinformation.
He warned that unchecked misinformation has the power to destabilize society, urging law enforcement and security institutions to treat the matter with seriousness.
“This terrorist organisation called social media must be addressed. Our security agencies need to step up and take it seriously,” he added.
Misinformation: A Growing Concern in Nigeria.
The Sultan’s statement comes amidst national conversations on regulating digital platforms, with concerns about fake news, propaganda, and defamation becoming common in Nigeria’s social media space.
Public Reaction: Mixed Opinion.
While some Nigerians have supported the Sultan’s strong stance, applauding his effort to draw attention to the dangers of unchecked online content, others have expressed serious concerns.
Critics argue that branding social media as a “terrorist organisation” is an extreme position that could threaten freedom of expression in a democratic society. They warn that such statements might be used to justify stricter regulations or even censorship of online voices, including journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens who rely on digital platforms to express themselves and hold leaders accountable.
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On the other hand, supporters of the Sultan’s view believe his statement reflects the frustration many feel about fake news, cyberbullying, and online scams that continue to harm individuals and communities. They argue that more should be done to enforce responsible digital use and combat the misuse of these powerful platforms.
As the debate continues, the Sultan’s remarks have reignited a national conversation about the role of social media in modern Nigeria — and the balance between safeguarding public peace and preserving constitutional rights.
