The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has said that social media platforms are buzzing in Nigeria because the government has guaranteed the freedom of speech.
The AGF, represented by his media aide Kamarudeen Ogundele, said this in a speech at the Abuja Social Media Summit organised by the Red Carpet on Wednesday.
The minister added that social media platforms have also become veritable tools that Nigeria’s teeming youths are using to showcase their talents and also to make money.
“But we must realise the need for us to at all times demonstrate responsible citizenship while this government has continued to provide responsible leadership through many social safety nets it has provided over time,” he said
He described the theme of the event, which is “Harnessing the Power of Social Media for National Development,” as both apt and timely, adding that “it is an aspect of modernised communication that can make or mar a country. Developments across the world in recent times are pointers to this.
“Social media platforms are buzzing in Nigeria because the government has guaranteed the freedom of speech. They have also become veritable tools that our teeming youths are using to showcase their talents and also to make money.
“But we must realise the need for us to at all times demonstrate responsible citizenship while this government has continued to provide responsible leadership through many social safety nets it has provided over time.
“Harnessing the power of social media for national development involves leveraging social media platforms to promote economic growth, improve governance, enhance civic engagement, and foster societal progress.”
Prince Fagbemi said “The government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to leading the country out of the woods. Various reforms and policy directions are being introduced in all strata of our national life which require the support of all Nigerians.
“Just as they say that social media neither sleeps nor slumbers, we must watch our word! Weigh it before you utter it. For, once uttered, it cannot be retrieved. No individual should use his freedom of speech on social media to infringe upon the rights of another as it is fast becoming the order of the day.
“We must also be careful of what we say about our country. Political differences should not make us de-market our country on the international stage. Only unpatriotic citizens or leaders will choose to do so.
“Those who speak ill of their country to settle political differences should never have the opportunity to lead the same country at any stage. This government has demonstrated responsible leadership by allowing freedom of expression and will continue to do so.”
He congratulated the Convener of the summit, Earl Osaro Onaiwu, describing him as a man who has contributed to the nation-building.
“I read recently in the newspaper that he has decided to quit partisan politics for him to be able to focus on nation-building and community development. I wish him well in his future endeavour and hope to see more of his contributions to national development,” he said.
