Dokpesi Jr: Unregulated Social Media Poses Threat To National Security

Raymond Dokpesi Jr., Chairman, Daar Communications

Dokpesi Jr - Unregulated Social Media Poses Threat to National Security

On February 9, 2026, Raymond Olokor Dokpesi Jr, Chairman of DAAR Communications Plc, raised a critical alarm about the dangers posed by unregulated social media platforms to Nigeria’s national security and information sovereignty.

His remarks, delivered in Abuja during his announcement to contest the chairmanship of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), highlight the growing tension between traditional media institutions and the unchecked influence of digital platforms. 

 

The Core Argument

Dokpesi Jr emphasized that technological advances have democratized broadcasting, allowing virtually anyone with a smartphone to command audiences larger than established media houses. While this accessibility has broadened participation in public discourse, it has also created vulnerabilities. He warned that foreign-controlled digital platforms, operating without regulatory oversight, could manipulate narratives, spread misinformation, and undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty.  

National Security Concerns

The central concern lies in the ability of social media to amplify misinformation and destabilizing content. Dokpesi Jr argued that unregulated platforms can be exploited by hostile actors, both domestic and foreign, to sow discord, weaken trust in institutions, and erode national unity. His warning aligns with broader fears expressed by other Nigerian leaders, such as the Sultan of Sokoto, who has similarly cautioned against the misuse of social media to inflame religious and ethnic tensions.  

The Broader Context

Nigeria’s struggle with misinformation, extremist propaganda, and cyber threats has made the regulation of social media a recurring national debate. Scholars and security experts have long noted that terrorists and criminal networks exploit digital platforms for recruitment, propaganda, and coordination. This reality underscores Dokpesi Jr’s assertion that unregulated social media is not merely a communication tool but a potential weapon against national stability.  

Implications for Media Regulation

Dokpesi Jr’s remarks also reflect the tension between traditional broadcasting organizations and the rise of digital-first platforms. As he campaigns for leadership within BON, his position suggests a push for stronger regulatory frameworks that balance freedom of expression with national security imperatives. The challenge lies in crafting policies that safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty without stifling innovation or silencing legitimate voices.  

Conclusion

Dokpesi Jr’s warning is a timely reminder of the delicate balance between digital freedom and national security. His call for regulation reflects growing concerns that Nigeria’s information ecosystem, if left unchecked, could become a battleground for misinformation and external influence. The debate he has reignited will likely shape the future of media governance in Nigeria, determining how the nation navigates the risks and opportunities of the digital age.