VIDEO: Social media is a terrorist organisation – Sultan of Sokoto

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’adu Abubakar III, has likened social media to a “terrorist organisation,” urging security agencies to take decisive action against the spread of online misinformation. Speaking at the 7th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council in Maiduguri on Tuesday, April 15, the monarch expressed deep concern over social media’s growing influence in shaping public opinion through false narratives. “Social media is a terrorist organisation. What they do, when somebody is in a comfort room and formulates stories… we must deal with this terrorist organisation called social media. Security agencies must deal with it,” the Sultan declared. “Social media is a terrorist organisation that we must deal with. Security agencies must deal with this terrorist organisation called social media.”Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’adu Abubakar III, Sultan of Sokoto, says security agencies must treat social media as a serious threat. pic.twitter.com/kPn6NxGmoX— News Central TV (@NewsCentralTV) April 16, 2025 The high-level gathering, themed “Enhanced Security as Panacea for Stability and Development of the North,” brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, and security chiefs to address the escalating insecurity across northern Nigeria. Behind closed doors, discussions reportedly focused on worsening violence in Borno and other northern states, where insurgency and banditry continue to destabilise communities. Call for stakeholder engagement against terrorism The Sultan also clarified the role of traditional rulers in national development, emphasising collaboration rather than competition with elected officials. “We are not in competition with political leaders. We are here to help ensure peace and stability in our communities,” he said. His comments come amid increasing concern over the role of digital platforms in fueling unrest, with recent incidents in the region linked to online misinformation and incitement. While controversial, the Sultan’s remarks reflect growing frustration among northern leaders about the challenges of managing public perception and maintaining order in an era dominated by fast-moving online content.