Fake News and Hate Speech Fueling Nigeria's Conflicts

During a lecture at the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Professor Ebenez Olusegun Ogungb highlighted the detrimental effects of fake news and hate speech on Nigeria's social fabric. He stated that these issues are breeding grounds for conflict and are a major obstacle to the country's development.

Ogungb pointed out that despite various policies and legislative efforts aimed at addressing the spread of misinformation, the high illiteracy rate in Nigeria complicates the situation. He urged Nigerian journalists to embrace the concept of peace journalism, which involves promoting a culture of peace among citizens.

Ogungb stressed the importance of sharing authentic information in the digital space to counteract the prevalence of false narratives that can lead to serious consequences. He called for a collective effort to eliminate hate speech and misinformation to prevent further conflicts in Nigeria.