Fagbemi: Politicians who speak ill of Nigeria should never be allowed to lead

Lateef Fagbemi, the attorney-general of the federation (AGF) and minister of justice, says politicians who speak ill of Nigeria to settle political differences should never be allowed to lead the country.

Fagbemi spoke on Wednesday at the Abuja social media summit.

The minister, represented by Kamarudeen Ogundele, his spokesperson, noted that Nigerians should use social media to contribute to national development and not to “de-market our country on the international stage”.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

The AGF commended the theme of the event—’Harnessing the power of social media for national development’—noting that it was “apt and timely because it is an aspect of modernised communication that can make or mar a country.”

He said 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,” Fagbemi said.

“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.”

Fagbemi emphasized that national development can be achieved by leveraging social media in several key areas, including e-commerce, digital payments, job creation, and entrepreneurship.

He also highlighted the role of social media in promoting tourism, transparency, and civic engagement, citing global examples such as India’s digital programme, South Korea’s e-government initiative, and Kenya’s M-Pesa mobile payment system.

The minister said the federal government, through the National Orientation Agency (NOA), is dedicated to fostering national unity and development by enlightening and engaging citizens with accurate and timely information.

He also warned about the inherent challenges of widespread social media use, including misinformation, cybersecurity threats, and the digital divide.

He stressed the need for collaboration among governments, civil society, and the private sector to create an environment that is conducive to social media-driven development.