The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on the Federal Government to regulate social media, warning that the growing spread of fake news poses a major threat to national peace and stability.
Speaking on Tuesday at the Northern Traditional Rulers Council General Assembly in Birnin Kebbi, the Sultan expressed concern over the rapid spread of misinformation on online platforms, noting that many Nigerians easily believe and act on false information.
“It is now time for the government to regulate social media in the country. The spread of fake news is dangerous and must be addressed,” he said.
He added, “I strongly condemn some of the harsh words directed at our military because of certain setbacks. They are doing their best to restore security in many parts of the country. Such criticism does not help; it only discourages those risking their lives for our safety.”
The Sultan commended the Nigerian military for their efforts in combating insecurity across the country, particularly in the fight against banditry.
He noted that without the military’s sustained operations, the council’s meeting in Kebbi might not have been possible.
