In the age of the internet, a dangerous trend of manipulating people has emerged, jeopardizing the core principles of truth and authenticity. This article explores the tactics used to shape opinions, influence choices, and create divisions, from social media echo chambers to disinformation campaigns…...CONTINUE READING
It emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and digital literacy to counteract this trend, highlighting the need for ethical responsibility in a digital world where manipulation has become a pervasive threat.
It’s disheartening to witness the rise of a disturbing trend during the recent presidential election, one characterized by sustained animosity directed at political adversaries. What’s even more concerning is the evolution this trend has undergone, with manipulators employing highly impactful psychological tactics.
In essence, two formidable weapons were wielded against Tinubu during this political battle: the state of his health and the portrayal of his private life as dubious, depicting him as a heartless godfather and even insinuating involvement in drug-related activities, including drug addiction.
To tarnish Tinubu’s image and question his integrity, a diverse array of methods was utilized. These manipulators strategically channeled their message through mediums known to influence the psychology of their intended audience, seeking to mold public perception.
Regrettably, even after the defeat of the purported “Obidient movement” at the polls, they have refrained from acknowledging to their supporters that their campaign was orchestrated to thwart Tinubu’s presidential aspirations.
An illustrative example of their tactics is the manipulation of Tinubu’s health issues. It has become glaringly evident that the image they painted during the elections was far from the truth. Videos were skillfully doctored with AI technology to deceive the public, depicting him as physically incapable, brain-dead, unable to sign documents, and even resorting to unseemly actions.
Thankfully, Tinubu emerged victorious in the elections, and these baseless claims were put to rest. The president has since demonstrated robust health. However, no apology has been extended to date for disseminating this false narrative to the Nigerian populace.
This episode serves as a striking example of the way misinformation and manipulation can be employed for political gain, with little regard for the consequences or the truth.
Think about the drug case they keep using to control their easily swayed followers. They don’t seem to understand that Tinubu is a well-known individual who has been in the news frequently for the previous thirty years and more , as can be seen by carefully examining his background.
Moreover, his presence extends beyond mere headlines; he has also assumed prominent leadership positions, excelling as an international business magnate, spearheading key divisions in prestigious corporations, serving as a former senator and governor, and currently holding the esteemed office of president.
Consider the irony in these assertions. They want us to believe that a drug lord could achieve extraordinary success in their criminal career or that an armed robber could rise to the presidency of a significant black nation, which is, in reality, implausible and untrue.
In another light, can you seriously think of any real-world examples where a drug kingpin has managed to thrive in their illegal activities for seventy years and is still alive today? The truth is that these scenarios are not rooted in reality and appear more like deliberate deceptions. These claims don’t align with the facts or principles of justice.
In the drug world, the harsh reality is quite different. Drug lords typically face substantial risks, not just from law enforcement but also from their own criminal associates. In the world of crime, there are no guarantees of survival, and these assertions seem more like fiction than fact.
Or are we seriously suggesting that, in this instance, the universe’s concept of karma is rewarding evil with greatness? No, it’s not that Nigeria is an exception, right? Even in Mexico, can you name a drug lord who managed to become a president? Such notions seem to exist solely in their imagination.
It’s almost comical to think that people are so unwavering in their disdain or that they are deliberately turning a blind eye to the truth because their animosity has become infectious. The reality, it seems, is lost on those who persist in these unfounded beliefs.
Now, they might argue that there is suffering everywhere, that the cost of living has soared. However, they tend to forget that this is a direct outcome of the removal of fuel subsidies and the fluctuation of the Naira. Were they expecting miracles after the fuel subsidy was removed?
What they won’t mention is the diligent efforts of the Tinubu administration to revive the refineries or the fact that the power sector has been deregulated, attracting investments. They won’t discuss the confidence the international community has in the country, with world leaders seeking Tinubu’s attention. They won’t delve into the renewed sense of hope. To them, it’s all about incompetence when it comes to Tinubu.
They won’t acknowledge the youthful appointments in Tinubu’s administration or the clear vision for the future. These are the aspects these individuals won’t share. Instead, they dwell on fabrications in an attempt to undermine support for Tinubu’s leadership.
But here’s the silver lining: Tinubu is fully aware of all this, and it seems he’s on a mission to surprise them. His commitment to national growth and development remains unwavering.
These individuals, who persistently cling to grievances and fictitious tales, embody what I’ve come to call the “Sons of Wails.”
