Abdulsalami: fake News, political Propaganda fuel terrorism in Nigeria**
Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), has said that political propaganda and the spread of fake news on social media are strengthening terrorist groups and worsening insecurity across Nigeria.
Abdulsalami made the remarks in a statement released to mark his 84th birthday, where he reflected on the country’s security challenges and called for national unity in confronting terrorism and other forms of criminality.
According to him, the recent death of General Rabe Abubakar and numerous other victims of insecurity should serve as a reminder of the urgent need for collective action against violent groups.
He acknowledged the efforts of the armed forces and other security agencies in combating terrorism but stressed that security should not be left solely in their hands.
“The armed forces and all other security agencies have been very strong in the fight against terrorism. But this is not their fight alone. Every citizen has a stake, and it is my plea that Nigerians unite to fight against terror,” he said.
The former military leader expressed concern over what he described as the increasing politicisation of security matters, noting that it has contributed to the country’s current challenges.
He warned that propaganda driven by political and personal interests, as well as the dissemination of false information on social media, has encouraged terrorist and criminal groups.
“Propaganda for political and other selfish gains is giving oxygen to terrorist groups. The use of fake news on social media to propagate false narratives has served to encourage terrorists and other criminal groups,” he stated.
Abdulsalami added that the success of one terrorist group often inspires others, urging Nigerians to reconsider actions that may inadvertently fuel insecurity.
He called on security agencies to remain steadfast in their operations and urged the government to continue taking decisive measures to end the country’s security crisis.
The former head of state also appealed to citizens to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and supportive of efforts aimed at preserving national unity.
“Nigeria is the only country we have. I joined the army to defend it with my life. I remain a firm believer in a united and peaceful Nigeria,” he said.
Abdulsalami, who became Nigeria’s Head of State on June 9, 1998, oversaw the country’s transition to democratic rule before handing over power to President Olusegun Obasanjo on May 29, 1999.
