Is Yoruba Land becoming a recruiting ground for misinformation and division?
By NASRUDEEN ABBAS
The question, therefore, is not whether propaganda exists—it undoubtedly does. The more important question is whether Yoruba Land will remain faithful to its tradition of tolerance and truth, or whether it will allow itself to become a fertile ground for narratives that sow discord and undermine national unity.
There is little doubt that anti-Islam narratives have increasingly found their way into Nigeria’s social and traditional media spaces. Many observers believe that some of these campaigns are supported by foreign-funded organizations and interests seeking to shape public opinion. What is particularly troubling, however, is the growing willingness of some people within Yoruba Land to amplify such narratives, even when they are rooted in prejudice, distortion, or outright falsehood.
The Yoruba people have long been associated with the values of Omoluabi—integrity, honesty, respect, and fairness. These values have historically distinguished the Yoruba race as one that embraces coexistence and religious tolerance. Yet, recent developments suggest that these principles are being challenged by the spread of divisive propaganda that seeks to pit communities against one another.
Globally, political figures such as Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu have often been accused by critics of promoting policies and rhetoric viewed as hostile toward Muslims. They have not denied being anti-Islam especially Trump, who publicly declared, allegedly, that Muslims are “our enemies”. Whether rightly or wrongly, their influence has extended beyond their borders, shaping conversations and attitudes outside of their domains particularly Nigeria, most unfortunately in the South West. In parts of Southern Nigeria, some observers argue that similar sentiments are increasingly being echoed, especially on social media platforms where misinformation can spread rapidly and unchecked.
Examples of this trend can be seen in everyday interactions. Stories are emerging of people avoiding public spaces or social situations simply because of the ethnic or religious identity of those present. Such actions are often fueled by fear, suspicion, and narratives that portray entire groups as threats rather than fellow citizens.
Imagine a Yoruba man on YouTube saying he spent 20 years in Hausa Land and saw that Shari’ah has been used to kill many people saying even the Muslims of Yoruba background are not regarded in Northern Nigeria especially in Sokoto, Kaduna and Kano. But all of these narratives are fake and premeditatedly mischievous.
Because Yoruba are said to be leaders in education in Nigeria, it is not expected that anyone will use their space to spread lies against Islam, Muslims or Fulani and it happens, not only that they believe those lies but also, they celebrate and act on them as shown in their relationship with Muslims and members of other tribes particularly the Fulani people.
Social media influencers and content creators also bear responsibility. In pursuit of engagement, attention, or ideological goals, some individuals have been accused of exaggerating events, distorting facts, or presenting isolated incidents as evidence of broader conspiracies. The result is a steady erosion of trust between communities that have lived side by side for generations.
One example frequently cited is the claim by some commentators that Sharia law in Northern Nigeria has been used extensively to oppress or eliminate certain groups, including Yoruba Muslims. Such assertions are often presented without evidence and are repeated so frequently that they begin to shape public perception regardless of their accuracy. While legitimate concerns about governance, justice, and religious freedom should always be discussed openly, they must be grounded in facts rather than sensationalism.
As one of Nigeria’s most educated and influential ethnic groups, the Yoruba have a responsibility to uphold the principles of critical thinking and truth. Education should serve as a defense against misinformation, not a tool for spreading it. It is therefore disappointing when educated individuals use their platforms to circulate claims that deepen divisions or encourage hostility toward people of different faiths and ethnic backgrounds.
The future of Nigeria depends on mutual understanding, not suspicion. Yorubaland has historically been a symbol of religious harmony, where Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers have often lived together peacefully within the same families and communities. Preserving that legacy requires vigilance against misinformation, regardless of its source.
The question, therefore, is not whether propaganda exists—it undoubtedly does. The more important question is whether Yoruba Land will remain faithful to its tradition of tolerance and truth, or whether it will allow itself to become a fertile ground for narratives that sow discord and undermine national unity.
*Nasrudeen Abbas, a regular editorial contributor to The DEFENDER Newspaper, writes from Dushambe, Republic of Tajkistan.
