The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called on Nigerian youths to practice responsible digital citizenship and resist using social media to spread misinformation, hate, and content that threatens national security. Speaking at the National Youth Leadership and Security Dialogue 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 noted that many conflicts now start online. He listed misinformation, disinformation, deepfakes, cyberbullying, impersonation and coordinated digital attacks as threats that can damage reputations, divide communities, and trigger real-world violence.
With the 2027 elections approaching, IGP Disu warned that digital platforms are increasingly being used to manipulate public opinion and deepen divisions. He urged youths to verify information before sharing, pause before posting, and remember that real people are behind every profile. “THINK BEFORE YOU CLICK. VERIFY BEFORE YOU SHARE. PAUSE BEFORE YOU POST,” he said. The Police chief added that young Nigerians have the power to shape conversations, mobilize communities and drive innovation — and that power must be used to promote truth, unity and constructive dialogue, not hate and intimidation. “You can choose to be used, or you can choose to lead,” he stated.
The IGP emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force seeks to work with youths as partners in preventing cybercrime, not just responding after it happens. He called for collaboration among the Police, schools, tech companies, civil society, parents and government to strengthen digital literacy and critical thinking. As the country enters a heated political season, Disu urged stakeholders to help young Nigerians use their online platforms responsibly. “Use your digital voice to build Nigeria—not burn it,” he concluded.
