By Effiong James
It is essential to recognize and address the evils of propaganda during communal crises to minimize the damage caused while promoting harmony and understanding.
Propaganda in communal crises is detrimental as it promotes the spreading of false information and misconceptions, intensifying existing tensions. By distorting facts, manipulating emotions, and exploiting vulnerabilities, propaganda fuels hatred and animosity between people who might already be at odds.
This misinformation not only deepens existing divisions but can also breed new conflicts that would have otherwise been avoidable as evident in recent publications sponsored by one Manfred Ekpe a wannabe lawyer in the recent remapping court judgment.
I would like to point out that propaganda in communal crises impairs the process of peace-building and reconciliation by spreading messages of vengeance, and retaliation.
However, Mr. Manfred Ekpe and his cohorts should realize that he undermines the efforts of the government to promote dialogue, compromise, and forgiveness and know that his actions strengthen extremist ideologies and radicalize individuals who might have otherwise been open to reconciliation, making it extremely challenging to reconcile differences and build a wave of sustainable peace.
Finally, the evils of fake news have long-lasting effects on society. The seeds of hatred, division, and mistrust sown by propaganda can permeate future generations, hindering the prospects of a harmonious and united community. The scars left by propaganda during crises take time to heal, requiring substantial efforts to rebuild trust, repair relationships, and foster a sense of unity among different groups.
Manfred Ekpe and his gang of false news peddlers should understand that false information, hinders peace building, incites violence, and has long-lasting damage to societal relations and should be called to order.
Lastly, it is pertinent to note that the Remapping case between Obolo people and Akwa Ibom State was not struck out or dismissed as paddled by a section of hired media but was rather transferred to the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State for hearing in a state High Court.
It is also worth noting that the court didn’t venture into the substantive matter.
Effiong James, a social commentator, writes from Afaha Etoi, Uyo Local Government Area
