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United Youth Movement For Better Nigeria Demands End to Online Political Hostility in Plateau
A youth-led rally was held Friday at Secretariat Junction in Jos, calling for an end to growing political propaganda and rising hostility on social media platforms across Plateau State. The event, organized by the United Youth Movement for Better Nigeria (UYMBN), brought together young advocates who urged residents to embrace unity under the theme “One Plateau.”
Speaking during the rally, Comrade Musa Joseph, National Coordinator of the movement, said the gathering was aimed at addressing the increasing toxicity in the digital space, which he described as harmful to Plateau’s image and collective progress.
He lamented that political divisions have created an environment where misinformation, cyberbullying, and personal attacks thrive, often driven by “political miscreants and data mercenaries” used by politicians to spread falsehoods. According to him, this trend undermines the values Plateau people are known for—civility, respect, and unity.
Comrade Joseph appealed to supporters of major political figures—including Governor Caleb Mutfwang and APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda—to stop fueling animosity online, emphasizing that both leaders have key roles to play in Plateau’s development. He stressed that politicians come and go, but the state remains, urging youths not to become tools for divisive interests.
“I would like to charge other ministries on the Plateau to emulate the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ephraim Usman, who collaborates with youths and citizens, bringing ideas that project the state in growth and development. That should be the way forward.”
He also called for stronger regulation of the social media space, noting that while freedom of expression is guaranteed under the Constitution, it must not cross into hate speech, incitement, or defamation. Joseph encouraged the State House of Assembly to consider laws that promote responsible digital engagement to safeguard peace.
The youth coordinator further applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Plateau citizens into strategic national positions, saying the state must project itself positively to attract more opportunities.
Also speaking at the rally, Hon. Ambassador Daniel Dazan, Speaker of the Youth Assembly of Nigeria, Plateau State chapter, said moral values among young people must be revived to counter the breakdown of discipline and rising online hostility. He called on the state government and relevant institutions to support initiatives that promote peace, digital responsibility, and youth engagement.
Dazan warned that the obsession with political fights on social media distracts youths from tackling real challenges such as insecurity, unemployment, and social vices. He urged young people to channel their energy toward peacebuilding and productive development rather than political rivalry.
The organizers vowed to escalate their advocacy to the state government and, if necessary, to the presidency, insisting that Plateau must not be portrayed in a negative light due to online conflicts. They described unity and responsible communication as essential for the future of the state.
The United Youth Movement for Better Nigeria (UYMBN) also acknowledged the strides of Seyi Tinubu, their patron especially his efforts towards galvanizing the youths into participatory governance.
The chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to revitalising hockey through infrastructure, grassroots development, and domestic competitions.
At the closing ceremony of the 2026 Nigeria Hockey Super League on Saturday in Abuja, Dikko commended the Nigeria Hockey Federation for successfully organising the tournament and repositioning the sport.
“This tournament perfectly aligns with the vision of the National Sports Commission under the Renewed Hope Initiative for a vibrant sports economy,” he said.
He said discussions with African Hockey Federation President Seif El Dine Ahmed and German experts confirmed Nigeria’s immense talent capable of competing globally with the right facilities.
Dikko said President Bola Tinubu approved the nationwide rehabilitation of sports infrastructure, with the national hockey pitch to be upgraded to international standards.
“We have already identified world-class turf in consultation with the African Hockey Federation. Once upgraded, Nigeria can host major African hockey tournaments.
“Sports bring Nigerians together irrespective of tribe, religion or background, serving as a national asset and driver of economic growth through jobs and tourism,” he said.
Also speaking, Abdul Ningi, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports Development, called for greater investment across all sporting federations, not just football.
“Over 20 sporting federations, yet only a few consistently receive attention. Sports development must be diversified so every federation grows and contributes to national development,” he said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Osifo Emefile, expressed satisfaction with the Nigeria Police team’s performance at the championship.
Simeon Nkom, president of NHF, described the Super League as the most successful championship, citing the quality of the competition and the dignitaries in attendance.
“I can confidently say this is the best championship we have organised.
“The presence of NSC chairman, African Hockey Federation president, sponsors, partners, and media shows recognition hockey deserves,” he said.
He said the national hockey pitch built for the 2003 All Africa Games had reached the end of its lifespan and no longer met international standards.
“We are encouraged by the federal government’s commitment through NSC to rehabilitate the facility. Once the new turf is installed, Nigeria can host major African tournaments again, boosting development,” he said.
Kaduna-based Kada Stars defeated Plateau Tigers 3-2 in the men’s final, retaining the title.
The Kada Queens beat Plateau Queens 2-0 in the women’s to also retain their title.
(NAN)
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