ABUJA — The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu has called on Nigerian youths to refuse to be used as tools for misinformation, hate speech and online manipulation. Speaking at the National Youth Leadership and Security Dialogue to mark 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 digital platforms can either build nations or destroy them. He identified disinformation, deepfakes, cyberbullying, impersonation and coordinated online attacks as threats that damage reputations, deepen divisions and can trigger real-world violence. “Your digital footprint is part of your citizenship,” Disu told the gathering.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, the IGP warned that false information spreads fastest during periods of political tension. He urged young Nigerians not to let their influence be exploited for political manipulation or intimidation. Instead of amplifying rumors, he said, they should verify facts, pause before posting, and consider the impact of their content. “THINK BEFORE YOU CLICK. VERIFY BEFORE YOU SHARE. PAUSE BEFORE YOU POST,” he stressed. The IGP challenged youths to use technology for education, innovation, entrepreneurship and positive community mobilization rather than destruction.
IGP Disu said the Nigeria Police Force wants a stronger partnership with youths to fight cybercrime and promote responsible digital citizenship. He noted that young people have enormous influence to shape conversations, challenge injustice and influence public policy — and with that comes responsibility. “You can choose to be used, or you can choose to lead,” he stated. The IGP called for collaboration with schools, parents, civil society and tech stakeholders to promote digital literacy and critical thinking. “DON’T AMPLIFY HATE. DON’T SPREAD FALSEHOOD. DON’T BECOME A DIGITAL THUG. USE YOUR DIGITAL VOICE TO BUILD NIGERIA,” he concluded.
