Publisher of The Streetjournal Newspaper, Mogaji Wole Arisekola, has cautioned Nigerians against the spread of false stories, rumours, and unverified reports on social media, warning that such practices fuel fear, panic, and unnecessary tension across the country.
In a reflective piece released on Saturday, Arisekola expressed concern over the growing culture of misinformation on platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, noting that whether driven by boredom or the desire for attention, the circulation of fake news poses a serious threat to national stability.
He stressed that the habit of sharing unconfirmed information only worsens existing challenges, heats up the polity, and creates avoidable anxiety among citizens. According to him, responsible communication and a commitment to truth are essential at a time when the nation is grappling with multiple social and economic pressures.
Drawing from a popular adage, Arisekola remarked that “if there is no crack in the wall, a lizard will not enter,” urging Nigerians to be more vigilant and deliberate in verifying information before sharing it. He also referenced a famous wartime quote by former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill on truth and lies, cautioning that while truth may sometimes require protection, unchecked falsehoods are ultimately destructive.
Beyond the issue of misinformation, the media executive reflected on social inequality and the need for empathy, gratitude, and contentment. He observed the sharp contrasts of life, noting that while some enjoy comfort and abundance, others struggle daily for survival.
He lamented that for every celebration there is sorrow elsewhere, and for every luxury enjoyed, others endure hardship, adding that contentment remains a pathway to true wealth and inner peace. According to him, recognising one’s limits and remembering life’s inevitable end helps foster humility and compassion.
Arisekola concluded by offering prayers for national progress and personal fulfilment, expressing hope that the aspirations of Nigerians in 2026 would come to full manifestation.
[10/01, 08:14] Adeyemi Lasisi: 2027 Politics and the Silent Cost of False Promises on Supporters’ Well-Being
As preparations for the 2027 general elections gradually gather momentum, potential candidates, their supporters, associates and political partners must tread with caution. Beyond campaign strategies and electoral permutations lies a growing but often ignored concern: the emotional and psychological toll of political deception on unsuspecting supporters.
Over the years, Nigerians have become familiar with a troubling pattern in the political space. Some aspirants, lacking credibility, public trust or a verifiable record of service, resort to extravagant promises to attract loyalty. These inducements often include overseas relocation, foreign education opportunities, employment offers, empowerment schemes, and even religious pilgrimages such as Hajj slots or Jerusalem tours. Carefully packaged, these promises are designed to secure blind allegiance and unquestioning commitment.
In many cases, however, the warmth of these gestures fades quickly. The promises turn out to be hollow, serving only as tools to advance personal ambition or short-term political objectives. Once elections are concluded or ambitions collapse, supporters are frequently abandoned, leaving them humiliated and disillusioned.
There have been painful instances of individuals promised pilgrimage slots or relocation abroad, only to be left disappointed and emotionally broken. For vulnerable people who invested hope, time and sometimes scarce resources, the aftermath is often frustration, trauma and deep emotional distress. When expectations are deliberately raised without the capacity or intention to fulfil them, the resulting psychological impact can be devastating.
This reality underscores the need to fundamentally rethink how political support is given and sustained. Support should not be traded for personal favours or unrealistic inducements, but anchored on clear, realistic and people-centred policies. Education, transportation, electricity and gas supply, employment opportunities, housing, security and accessible primary healthcare should form the basis of political engagement.
In a functional society, citizens should not have to plead with politicians for hospital bills, school fees or emergency assistance. Effective governance should reduce vulnerability, not exploit it.
As 2027 approaches, Nigerians are called upon to choose wisely—not only for electoral outcomes, but for their dignity, emotional well-being and a future built on sincerity, accountability and truth rather than deception.