In periods of political tension, young people are often the most targeted—not on the streets, but online. Social media has become the new battleground where misinformation spreads rapidly, emotions are manipulated, and hate speech is normalised. In Kano’s current political climate, we are witnessing how easily youths are drawn into online political crises that harm not only society but also their own well-being.
Political disagreements should be about ideas, policies, and development, not insults.
Yet, during political crises, many youths are recruited as online warriors—paid or unpaid—to spread false narratives, attack opponents, and inflame tensions. When the crisis passes, the damage remains: broken relationships, digital footprints that ruin opportunities, and a society more divided than before.
Before sharing or posting, pause and ask: Is this true? Is it necessary? Is it respectful?
Misinformation and hate speech do not promote justice; they poison public discourse and deepen divisions. Today’s post or comment can follow you for years, affecting your career, reputation, and mental health.
Equally important is the need to shun social vices, both offline and online. Drug abuse, cyberbullying, online harassment, and toxic digital spaces weaken judgement and make young people easier to manipulate. A youth struggling emotionally or mentally is more vulnerable to being pushed into spreading hate or falsehoods in the name of politics.
Political crises in Kano should be moments for restraint, responsibility, and reflection—especially in the digital space. Political actors may disagree, but young people must not turn those disagreements into online hostility that threatens unity and peace.
Kano has a proud history of tolerance, scholarship, and coexistence. We must protect that legacy by promoting responsible digital citizenship, respectful dialogue, and fact-based engagement.
Young people are not tools for propaganda; they are agents of positive change. Use your voice to promote peace, truth, and development—not hate, lies, or division.
History will judge this generation not by how aggressively it defended political interests online, but by how wisely it used its voice for unity, dignity, and progress.
The choice is yours.
Zainab Nasir Ahmad
Executive Director, Youth Society for the Prevention of Infectious Diseases and Social Vices (YOSPIS).
