Restrict Social Media to Curb Misinformation,” Ebonyi Governor Tells FG

Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has called on the Federal Government to place restrictions on social media in order to curb the spread of misinformation and “half-truths” online.

Speaking in Abakaliki on Friday during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the governor lamented the rise of false reports on digital platforms.

“It is high time we put serious restrictions, especially on unfounded stories. You go to social media and see posts declaring someone dead while the person is hale and hearty, yet the writer faces no sanction. This is not how a country should operate,” Mr Nwifuru said.

He further urged the Federal Government to engage young people in practical agriculture, noting that hunger and idleness often push youths toward negative online activities. According to him, farming and other productive ventures would channel their energy in more meaningful directions.

On national issues, Mr Nwifuru praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its infrastructure and human capital development efforts, adding that many achievements were underreported. He lauded the appointment of former Ebonyi governor, David Umahi, as Minister of Works, describing him as “vibrant and committed.”

The governor expressed confidence in Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 and pledged the “full support of Ebonyi people” for the president. He also highlighted the impact of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has attracted more than 400,000 student beneficiaries, alongside Ebonyi’s own postgraduate scholarship scheme.

Minister Idris said his visit was to engage Ebonyi citizens and inspect federal projects. He explained that over ₦86 billion had been approved for the smooth operation of NELFUND, stressing that the programme was designed to be transparent and accessible to all Nigerians.