NOA enlists religious leaders in fight against fake news
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has beckoned religious leaders to support the fight against misinformation and disinformation, especially regarding the policies and programmes of the Federal Government.
The Director-General of the agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, made this plea in Jigawa during a meeting with stakeholders on government policies, programmes and activities.
According to Issa-Onilu, the support of religious leaders and other stakeholders is essential because it will help to promote patriotism, unity and development in the country.
He disclosed that religious institutions are viable platforms to promote accurate information about government policies and programmes, due to their ability to reach the grassroots.
The DG explained that the government has rolled out various economic recovery reforms to build a better future for all Nigerians, regardless of class, religion or social status; however, only informed citizens can benefit.
“We appeal to our religious leaders to champion the fight against fake news and misinformation associated with government policies, programmes and activities,” he said.
“This is because religious institutions provide a vital platform to discourage followers and other Nigerians from spreading fake news and misinformation, and to disseminate accurate information about government policies, programmes and activities, thus countering the influence of fake news and misinformation.”
Issa-Onilu stressed the need for religious leaders to discourage followers from spreading fake or unverified information, noting that fake news and misinformation often lead to disintegration, chaos or even communal crises.
