By Suleiman Abdulmumin
The Ebira Youth Congress (EYC) has cautioned the youth of central Kogi against the dangers of social media sensationalism and the targeted defamation of public officials.
In a statement issued by its President General, Comrade Saka Bachido Ahmed, the socio-cultural organization emphasized that while social media remains a driving force for democracy globally, it must not be used as a platform for cyberbullying or slander.
The leadership noted that it is unacceptable for “untutored and uncouth” social media users to drag the personalities of public servants into the mud. The EYC warned that such actions not only diminish the efforts of these individuals but could also result in severe legal consequences for the perpetrators.
To ensure civility online, the EYC urged the youth to strictly adhere to the Cybercrimes Prohibition and Prevention Act, 2015. The organization reminded the public that the Act provides a legal framework for addressing cyber-bullying, stalking, and online harassment. It specifically highlighted that transmitting communications with the intent to bully or harass another person is a criminal offense, carrying penalties that include substantial fines and imprisonment.
The Congress further stated that while it believes in holding the government accountable, such engagements must be rooted in constructive criticism. It encouraged social media users to embrace valid criticism as a “governing creed” to check government activities and prevent fiscal imprudence, rather than resorting to attacks fueled by primordial sentiments or cynical emotions.
Reaffirming its commitment to societal development, the EYC expressed its support for the Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo-led administration in the Confluence State. The organization stated its readiness to project a positive image of the government’s achievements on social media, noting that this aligns with its core philosophy of community activism and peace. The statement concluded by calling on the governed to support the government while remaining objective critics to ensure the delivery of good governance.