Misuse Of Social Media, Fake News, Threat To National Unity – DSS

The Department of State Security Services (DSS), said misuse of social media, fake news, and hate speech are some of the agency’s major challenges and pose threat to national unity.

This was revealed by the spokesperson of the DSS, Dr Peter Afunanya while addressing journalists in Abuja, yesterday. He further said the DSS decision to engage the media is because the media play critical rule in the unity and peace of any nation and the engagement is a follow up to the Service’s similar one with the civil society organizations earlier in the year.

Dr Afunanya, who commended individuals who have been promoting peace and unity through their activities, said as 2023 elections draw nearer, the media must shun fake news, hate speech and any act that is capable of causing disunity in the country.

While delivering a special message to the nation, the DSS spokesperson said: ” Nigerians, elections are here again, let us shun violence let us play the game according to the rules, do not be a thug say no to violence, let’s rise and defeat violence, crime and sabotage against the peace of our nation. Nigeria is the only country we have.  We must do everything to keep it united.

“We must avoid any act that promotes hate and disintegration. Say no to separatist movement, terrorism, fake news, hate speech, religious bigotry and any act that tends to divide us as a nation.”

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The DSS also called on Nigerians to “watch out for strange gatherings, suspicious movements. Restrict access to sensitive documents and data, the disclosure of which may damage national security. Educate your staff and family particularly on measures to safeguard information and report security breaches. Apply relevant legal security guidelines to protect yourselves and your neighbours.

He said, “Avoid wrong use of the social media. Before you broadcast that false message, think twice. Ask whether it will promote peace or violence. For safety at home, still be security conscious.

Educate your household on safety tips.

Report all suspicious movements and persons to the security agencies nearest to you. To pass security information, call: 08132222105, 09153391309, 09088373514 or send a mail to [email protected]”.