Disinformation deepened Nigeria’s civil war, says Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the critical role disinformation played during the Nigerian Civil War, describing it as a powerful tool that fueled division and shaped public perception throughout the conflict.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday at the sixth annual Nigerian Civil War Symposium organized by the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN), Obasanjo stressed that the symposium’s theme, “The Role of Disinformation in the Nigerian Civil War,” remains highly relevant—particularly in light of today’s asymmetric warfare environment.

He explained that tactics such as propaganda, misinformation, and psychological manipulation were used by weaker forces during the war to undermine stronger opponents. According to him, these same strategies are now being employed by insurgent groups in northern Nigeria and other regions experiencing unrest.

“Disinformation was a major factor in the civil war. It heightened divisions and swayed public sentiment,” Obasanjo said. He added that studying such historical dynamics is essential for effective conflict resolution and national unity.

The former president called for a more focused approach to teaching military history, asserting that a deeper understanding of the past could guide Nigeria toward a more equitable future. He commended AWCN for integrating the civil war into its curriculum to help military leaders learn from previous campaigns.

Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, Major General P.E. Eromosele described the symposium as vital for developing intellectual depth within the armed forces. He affirmed the army’s commitment to strategic leadership and readiness through informed historical perspectives.

In his remarks, AWCN Commandant Major General Umar Alkali explained that the event was part of a broader initiative to strengthen the strategic thinking of officers enrolled in Course 9/2025. By examining the impact of disinformation during the civil war, he said, officers would be better prepared to manage the modern information landscape.

Professor Christopher Ogbogbo, Vice Chancellor of Admiralty University and guest lecturer, also delivered a presentation highlighting how distorted narratives and media manipulation shaped policy and public reactions during the war.