In a recent development, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has issued an appeal to the public, urging them to exercise caution when using social media platforms. The NAF has called on citizens to refrain from unknowingly aiding terrorists’ propaganda by sharing images and videos on social media or using their materials for comedic purposes.
Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, reiterated this plea during a Defence Media Operations briefing held at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja. When asked about the cause of a recent Air Force helicopter crash, Gabkwet emphasized the importance of being mindful about the content shared on social media.
He stated, “At this moment, we are uncertain about what caused the aircraft to crash. That’s why we continue to advise our citizens to be cautious about what they circulate on social media. When individuals allow themselves to become tools for spreading propaganda on behalf of enemies of the people or criminal elements seeking to divide our nation, it becomes difficult to comprehend the challenges we face today.”
Gabkwet emphasized that the Nigerian armed forces have been transparent about their operations. He also emphasized that accidents are a common occurrence in military operations and should not be a cause for shame.
“We are actively combating an insurgency and dealing with its complexities. If anyone believes that insurgency can be easily resolved, they should refer to history books and observe how other nations have faced similar challenges. In other countries, citizens unite around their armed forces and provide unwavering support,” Gabkwet added.
He called on the media and the public to rally behind the country and its security agencies. By doing so, they can provide vital information to the armed forces, enabling them to succeed in eliminating criminal elements from communities.
“Criminals exploit religion to kill our soldiers and innocent Nigerians, as well as commit other heinous acts such as rape and displacement. Yet, we continue to circulate their videos on social media,” Gabkwet remarked.
Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff, also addressed the issue during a meeting with Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State. Abubakar stated that the frequency of aircraft accidents and incidents is directly linked to the intensity of air operations.
“While we deeply regret such unfortunate incidents, especially those resulting in the loss of our colleagues’ lives, the NAF remains committed to investigating the probable cause of each crash to draw valuable lessons,” said Abubakar.
The appeal for discretion on social media serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible online behavior. By being cautious about the materials shared and consumed, citizens can play a significant role in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of their communities.
