Political propaganda, fake news on social media giving oxygen to terrorism – Abdulsalami

Abdulsalami Abubakar, former head of state, says political propaganda and dissemination of fake news on social media are emboldening terrorist groups and worsening insecurity in Nigeria.

Abdulsalami spoke in a statement issued on the occasion of his 84th birthday.

The former military ruler reflected on the state of the nation and called for greater national unity in the fight against insecurity.

He said the recent death of General Rabe Abubakar and many other victims of insecurity should serve as a wake-up call for Nigeria.

Abdulsalami added that although the armed forces and other security agencies have remained resolute in the fight against terrorism, the battle against insecurity requires the collective effort of citizens.

“It is clear that the success of attaining this objective must be inclusive,” he said.

“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.”

The ex-president lamented what he described as the growing politicisation of security issues.

“Over the years, politicization of security matters has worsened the situation and this has brought us to where we are today,” he said.

“Let us join forces with Government and Security agencies at all levels to defeat these evil ones, who do not recognise ethnicity, religion, political party, communal life or other forms of identity.

“Propaganda for political and other selfish gains is also 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.

“The success of one terrorist group encourages another, and unless we have a rethink, we will continue to promote this crisis.”

Abdulsalami urged security agencies not to relent in their efforts to combat terrorism and other forms of criminality across the country.

“I urge the armed forces and security agencies to continue their efforts, resolve and firmness in this fight and not to be discouraged,” he said.

“Government should in every manner continue to take decisive actions and resolve to bring tragedy to an end.”

He also appealed to Nigerians to remain law-abiding and vigilant.

“Nigeria is the only country we have. I joined the army to defend it with my life. I am a firm believer in a united and peaceful Nigeria,” he added.

“At my age, it was and is still my dream that we hand over to our children a united and prosperous nation.”

Abdulsalami was sworn in as Nigeria’s head of state on June 9, 1998. He handed over the nation’s reins to a democratically elected Olusegun Obasanjo, to kick-start Nigeria’s fourth republic, on May 29, 1999.(TheCable)