Borno State government has expressed concern over the ‘unruly behaviour and disorderly conduct’ of some youths using social media to make threatening and culturally inappropriate statements.
The condemnation came yesterday from the Directorate of Culture, Borno State Ministry of Information and Internal Security, which said, “The government condemned the ‘utterances and threats that are contrary to our culture and way of life.”
Specifically, the government cited social media posts depicting youths brandishing knives, insulting government officials and challenging lawful government policies.
The government deemed this behaviour ‘unacceptable,’urging youths to uphold “an orderly conduct consistent with our age-hallowed tradition, norms and values.”
As the “Home of Peace,” the government emphasised the importance of maintaining harmony and tolerance among its diverse communities.
While acknowledging the constitutional right to freedom of expression, free speech and peaceful assembly, the government made it clear that it will not tolerate breaches of law and order or constitutional violations.
The government encouraged citizens to express themselves within the bounds of the law and to refrain from making “counter-intuitive statements, spreading fake news or demonstrating hateful conducts.”
The statement made references to videos containing voices and admonitions from Borno youth, elders and leaders, reiterating the government’s call for responsible civic engagement.
The government urged youths to reconsider their social media actions and engage in constructive dialogue.
