Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele has raised alarm over the growing misuse of social media in Nigeria, labeling it a significant threat to the nation’s peace and stability.
Speaking virtually during the presentation of nomination forms to Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji by the Ekiti State University Alumni Solidarity Group, Bamidele emphasized the urgent need for legislative action to regulate the digital space.
The Senate Leader highlighted how unregulated social media platforms are increasingly being exploited to spread false narratives, political blackmail, and divisive content, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State.
“Social media practice is largely unregulated in Nigeria. Some don’t know this, some know this, but they are just being mischievous as a result of the moving train in the state,” Bamidele stated.
“We are coming to that to reduce the threat of social media, and the Senate will do something about that; it’s become a threat to the peace of the country.”
Bamidele’s remarks come amid growing concerns about the role of social media in fueling misinformation and societal discord.
He pointed to instances where false claims have been used to discredit political leaders, citing examples of narratives wrongly holding Governor Oyebanji accountable for the state of federal roads.
“As far as the Governor is concerned, he came to Abuja several times and led us to the office hastakeholders to discuss the state of federal roads,” Bamidele clarified, urging the public to verify information before sharing.
The Senate’s move follows earlier legislative efforts to address social media misuse. In March 2025, the Senate passed a bill for second reading, mandating social media platforms to establish physical offices in Nigeria to enhance accountability and compliance with local laws.
Sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko, the bill aims to protect Nigeria’s digital sovereignty, boost the economy, and ensure better regulation of online platforms. It also proposes that bloggers maintain verifiable offices and employee records, signaling a broader push for digital accountability.
However, the push for social media regulation has sparked mixed reactions. While supporters argue it will curb fake news and hate speech, critics fear it could infringe on free speech and stifle online activism.
Past attempts, such as the 2019 Protection from Internet Falsehood and Manipulation Bill, faced significant backlash, with over 85,000 Nigerians signing petitions against it, citing threats to freedom of expression.
The #SayNoToSocialMediaBill hashtag trended widely, reflecting public resistance to perceived government overreach.
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