IPOB slams Sultan of Sokoto over ‘Social media as terrorist’ comment

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has condemned remarks made by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar.

According to reports, the Sultan recently described social media in Nigeria as a “terrorist organisation” and called for its criminalisation.

IPOB rejected the statement, calling it absurd and dangerous in a release on Thursday, April 17, 2025.

Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, signed the statement condemning the Sultan’s words.

He said the Sultan’s comments reflect fear among the northern elite about rising exposure of violent crimes.

IPOB believes social media has exposed atrocities committed by suspected Fulani herdsmen and extremist groups.

The group accused the Sultan of attempting to silence whistleblowers and victims who speak through social platforms.

“A clear conscience fears no accusation,” Powerful stated while referencing well-known proverbs.

He said the Sultan’s fear proves complicity in widespread violence and insecurity.

Powerful criticised the Sultan for ignoring killings, kidnappings, and land grabs allegedly linked to Fulani groups.

He noted the Sultan focuses more on silencing platforms than condemning violence.

IPOB claimed mainstream media has been manipulated to downplay Fulani-related attacks.

The group argued that such violence is often rebranded as “banditry” or “farmer-herder clashes” to deceive the public.

According to IPOB, this tactic also misleads the international community.

IPOB praised social media for empowering Nigerian youth and amplifying suppressed voices.

The group said social platforms create economic opportunities and drive awareness of social issues.

Efforts to criminalise social media, they claim, aim to hide truth and suppress dissent.

“Nigerians and the world see the threat from Fulani terrorist groups,” IPOB declared.

They warned that silencing social media would fail.

“If the Sultan fears exposure, he should urge terrorists to disarm,” Powerful said.

IPOB vowed to continue using lawful means, including social media, to resist injustice.

The group remains committed to exposing those behind insecurity in Nigeria.

Media reports earlier published the Sultan’s comments made in Maiduguri on Tuesday.

He spoke during the 17th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council.

In a video clip, the Sultan labelled social media a “terrorist organisation.”

He accused users of spreading lies and causing unrest nationwide.

“You sit in your comfort and fabricate stories,” the Sultan alleged.

Nigerians have strongly criticised his remarks, demanding clarification and retraction.

Public reactions continue to trail the Sultan’s controversial statement.

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