Truth Decay: How Social Media Fractures Nigeria

A Nigerian newspaper has issued a stark warning about the power of social media. It argues that without a shared truth, society turns against itself. The editorial in *Vanguard* quotes an ancient proverb. It states, "Where there is no vision, the people perish; but where there is no truth, the people turn against each other." The paper applies this directly to modern Nigeria. It suggests that social media platforms are eroding a common understanding of truth. This creates a dangerous environment. Without agreed facts, public debate breaks down. The paper implies this makes national unity and progress very difficult. It presents this as a critical threat to the country's stability. The editorial does not call for censorship. Instead, it highlights the urgent need for a foundation of reliable information. For Nigeria, the spread of misinformation online is not just noise. It is seen as a force that can deepen social divisions and weaken the state.