The conviction of Simon Ekpa has highlighted the intersection of terrorism, new media, and the shaping of global opinion. Accused of inciting violence and promoting separatist propaganda, Ekpa exemplifies how extremist actors now exploit the digital landscape to advance their agendas.
Originally designed to connect and empower, new media platforms have become fertile ground for disinformation, hate speech, and radicalization. Unlike traditional terrorism, which relied on physical cells, modern extremism thrives in virtual communities. With little more than a smartphone and internet access, individuals can mobilize thousands, amplify fear, and destabilize societies.
Terrorism today is as much about narratives as it is about weapons. Extremist figures manipulate emotions such as fear, anger, and resentment to craft stories that resonate with some but endanger many. Ekpa’s rhetoric leaned on identity politics and distorted history to build influence, revealing how propaganda can be as destructive as physical violence. His conviction serves as a reminder that digital incitement carries tangible consequences.
Because media is globalized, local conflicts quickly spill into international conversations. Terrorists often recast themselves as victims or freedom fighters, while governments are portrayed as oppressors. Ekpa’s broadcasts reached not only Nigerians but also diaspora communities and international observers, shaping perceptions of Nigeria’s security challenges and potentially influencing global opinion.
The lessons are clear. Governments must strengthen digital monitoring and cybersecurity without undermining civil liberties. Countering extremist propaganda requires not just silencing it but also offering alternative narratives that foster unity and hope. Media literacy must be promoted so citizens can critically evaluate online content and resist manipulation. Above all, international cooperation is essential, as terrorism’s digital strategies cross borders with ease.
Simon Ekpa’s conviction underscores that modern terrorism is about controlling minds as much as territory. The new media is both a threat and an opportunity, depending on how it is harnessed. For Nigeria and Africa, the imperative is to build resilience, reclaim the narrative, and ensure that extremist voices do not define the global story of our people.
