Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says disinformation
played a significant role in the 1967 to 1970 Nigerian civil war.
Obasanjo spoke on Wednesday in Abuja during the sixth
edition of the annual Nigerian civil war symposium.
The symposium themed: ‘The Role of Disinformation in the
Nigerian Civil War’, was organised by the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN).
Obasanjo, who was first military ruler before becoming
civilian president in 1999, said disinformation, propaganda, and psychological
warfare are elements often deployed by a weaker force to discredit a superior
force during war.
“Disinformation played a significant role in the Nigerian
civil war, exacerbating tensions and influencing public opinion,” he was quoted
as saying by NAN.
“The same strategy is currently being employed by the
insurgents in the north-east and other violent groups in other parts of Nigeria.
“In line with the theme, the symposium will therefore
highlight the importance of media and information operations in conflict
resolution and nation-building.”
Obasanjo said the armed forces must be deliberate about
drawing lessons from historical events.
The ex-president added that understanding past events would
help to better address current challenges.
He commended the AWCN for the inclusion of the study of the
Nigerian civil war in its curriculum.
“This fratricidal conflict left an indelible mark on our
nation’s collective memory and continues to shape our identity,” he said.
“The war’s complex causes, consequences and lessons offer
valuable insights for us all.”
Earlier, Umar Alkali, commandant of AWCN, said the college
deliberately included the study of the civil war in its curriculum to help
participants dissect and draw practical lessons from historical events.
“This symposium allows us to analyse past military
operations at strategic, operational, and tactical levels,” he added.
“By understanding how disinformation shaped the Nigerian
civil war, we are better equipped to manage the information space in today’s
battles.”
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