IPCR CHIEF CALLS ON NIGERIAN YOUTHS TO REJECT HATE SPEECH, FAKE NEWS AHEAD OF 2027

The Executive Secretary of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution has urged Nigerian youths to avoid hate speech, misinformation and fake news as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.

The appeal was made amid growing concerns about the potential impact of inflammatory online content on Nigeria’s political environment, particularly as political activities begin to intensify ahead of the elections.

The IPCR boss stressed the important role young Nigerians can play in promoting peace and stability, noting that youths constitute a significant part of the country’s population and are highly active on social media platforms.

He advised them to verify information before sharing it and to avoid using social media to spread unverified claims capable of creating tension or provoking violence among individuals and communities.

According to him, responsible use of digital platforms is particularly important during election periods, when false information and provocative messages can easily spread and influence public opinion.

He also encouraged young Nigerians to engage in political discussions constructively and respect people with different political views. Rather than allowing political disagreements to create division, youths were urged to use their influence to promote dialogue, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

The warning comes ahead of the 2027 elections, which are expected to generate intense political activities across the country as political parties and their candidates begin to mobilise supporters.

The IPCR has continued to emphasise the importance of peacebuilding and conflict prevention, particularly in addressing factors that could undermine Nigeria’s democratic process.

The institute also called for greater collaboration among government institutions, political parties, civil society organisations, the media and young people to promote peaceful participation in the electoral process.

The IPCR chief maintained that ensuring a peaceful 2027 election would require collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to reject messages capable of deepening ethnic, religious or political divisions.

He further encouraged youths to become agents of peace and responsible citizenship by using their voices and digital platforms to promote unity, credible information and democratic values.