By Okoi Obono-Obla
Social Media Responsibility in Times of Conflict
Bahrain, one of the Gulf States, has recently been at the receiving end of missile and projectile attacks from Iran in retaliation for assaults attributed to the United States and Israel. Six individuals were arrested in Bahrain for sharing videos on social media showing missiles hitting targets in the country. The Interior Ministry stated that these videos, circulated through personal accounts, could mislead public opinion, spread fear among citizens and residents, and undermine security and public order.
Similarly, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, a man was jailed last week for five years after sharing videos on social media with his phone, showing missiles and projectiles launched from Iran hitting targets in Dubai amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
In contrast, Nigeria faces a different but related challenge. Some individuals take delight in sharing videos of gory scenes left behind by terrorist attacks on vulnerable communities, often to spite the government or to cause panic among the general population. Likewise, in 2024, a man in the United Kingdom was jailed for two years for posting a video on social media that authorities said was calculated to undermine inter-community relations.
The lesson here is clear: social media must be used responsibly. It should never serve as a platform to promote the work of terrorists or amplify their nefarious activities. Instead, it should be a tool for fostering unity, resilience, and constructive dialogue.
Conclusion: Responsible use of social media is not just a matter of personal choice but a collective duty to safeguard peace, security, and social harmony across nations.
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