The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated a major crackdown on the online presence of terrorist groups, announcing the deletion of their accounts on popular social media platforms. This move aims to disrupt their ability to spread propaganda, showcase illicit activities, and solicit funds from the public.
Security Agencies Partner with Tech Giants
Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, the Director General of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), made this disclosure in Abuja on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. He stated that Nigeria's security apparatus has been working directly with companies like Meta (Facebook, Instagram), TikTok, Snapchat, and X (formerly Twitter).
Laka explained that these platforms have been exploited by terrorist elements to promote their operations, display looted items, and communicate with their supporters and financiers. The collaborative effort focuses on identifying and taking down accounts and posts that pose a threat to national security.
Nigerians React with Mixed Feelings
The government's announcement has sparked a wave of reactions from citizens across the country, with many questioning the strategy's effectiveness.
Paschal raised a legal concern, arguing that deleting accounts could destroy vital evidence needed for prosecution. He suggested that the government should archive the online content instead of erasing it completely.
Ayomi wondered why the accounts were not being monitored to track and arrest the terrorists, while KVM expressed skepticism, noting that deleting one account would likely lead to the creation of many more.
Another commenter, Mr Enjoy Da Money, emphasized that the real solution lies in cutting off terrorism financing. He questioned why agencies like the EFCC and NCC are not more actively tracking financial flows and using National Identification Numbers (NIN) to locate suspects.
Temitope succinctly captured a common sentiment, asking why the focus is on deleting accounts rather than apprehending the terrorists themselves.
Broader Security Context
This development comes amidst ongoing counter-terrorism operations. It was separately reported that two suspected members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) were arrested in Lagos on Sunday, December 21. The suspects were identified as Modu Gana and Ibrahim Dugge.
While their specific objective in Lagos remains undisclosed, security experts warn that their presence could indicate an expansion of the group's operations beyond its traditional strongholds.
The Federal Government's move to cleanse social media of terrorist content represents a modern front in the complex battle against insurgency, highlighting the increasing importance of cybersecurity and digital policing in national security strategy.
