ABUJA — The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu has called on Nigerian youths to embrace responsible behavior online, warning that technology is being misused to spread misinformation, hate and content that threatens national peace. Speaking at the National Youth Leadership and Security Dialogue organized by the Nigeria Police Force to commemorate International Youth Day 2026 under the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” and the campaign “My Future Is Greater Than Political and Digital Thuggery,” the IGP said online actions now carry real-world consequences. He identified misinformation, disinformation, deepfakes, cyberbullying, impersonation and coordinated digital attacks as dangers that can damage reputations, provoke violence and erode trust in democratic institutions.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, the IGP cautioned that digital platforms can be weaponized to manipulate opinions, incite hatred and deepen divisions. He urged young Nigerians to be intentional with their online conduct: “THINK BEFORE YOU CLICK. VERIFY BEFORE YOU SHARE. PAUSE BEFORE YOU POST.” Disu advised youths to verify information before forwarding it, confirm facts before making allegations, and remember that real people are behind every screen. Instead of allowing their influence to be exploited, he encouraged them to use technology to educate, innovate, build businesses, mobilize communities and promote constructive dialogue.
The Inspector-General emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force seeks to work with youths as partners in fighting cybercrime, preventing violence, and strengthening peaceful democratic participation. “You have a choice. You can choose to be used, or you can choose to lead,” he said. The Force urged young Nigerians to make the digital space a platform for truth, innovation and national unity. “USE YOUR DIGITAL VOICE TO BUILD NIGERIA,” IGP Disu concluded.
