Chairman of DAAR Communications Plc, Raymond Dokpesi Jr, has warned that the unregulated influence of social media and digital platforms poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s national security and information sovereignty.
Dokpesi raised the concern in Abuja while speaking to journalists on his intention to contest the chairmanship of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON).
He said advances in technology have made it possible for anyone with a smartphone to operate as a broadcaster, often commanding audiences far larger than traditional media organisations.
According to him, some individual online influencers have subscriber bases running into millions, surpassing the reach of established private broadcasters, including opposition media outlets.
“What the government also needs to recognise is that with modern structures and technologies, anybody with a smartphone can be a broadcaster,” Dokpesi said.
He expressed concern that many digital platforms targeting Nigerian audiences are owned or managed by foreign interests, warning that this creates vulnerabilities for national security.
“People can set up platforms from outside the country and produce news specifically for Nigerian audiences. When foreigners essentially influence how events and stories are covered, it becomes dangerous for national security and information sovereignty,” he said.
Dokpesi contrasted the situation with licensed broadcasters in Nigeria, noting that traditional media organisations operate under clear regulatory frameworks and are accountable to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
“If a licensed broadcaster violates regulations, the NBC can call, fine or demand corrections. There is no equivalent mechanism for social media or foreign-operated platforms,” he noted.
He commended the current leadership of the NBC, saying it has performed fairly well in balancing regulation and media freedom, particularly as the country moves toward the 2027 general election.
Dokpesi said he had not observed politically motivated clampdowns on broadcasters over licence issues or editorial content and expressed hope that such neutrality would be sustained.
He pledged that if elected chairman of BON, he would work to unite the broadcasting industry to address challenges affecting both traditional and digital media.
Dokpesi added that his agenda would include stronger industry consultation in the review of the NBC Code and Act, enhanced self-regulation, establishment of an industry ombudsman, and protection of free-to-air broadcasting from undue restrictions.
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By Friday Olokor, Abuja
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