This snapshot is intended to offer an overview of inter-religious issues present in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, identifying emerging narratives, key actors, tactics, or techniques used in conversations related to communal clashes and religious groups. The overview is the third in a series of social media analytical reports by the Build Up and local partners that seek to empower youths in Bauchi, Plateau, and Gombe to advance inter-religious tolerance and freedom of religion. The report was written by Allan Cheboi, Data and Digital Technology Lead at Build Up.
Executive Summary
In September, social media narratives in Nigeria’s Bauchi, Gombe, and Plateau States revealed significant trends related to freedom of religion and belief, often marked by polarisation, misinformation, and occasional moments of unity. Recurring accusations against Vice President Shettima of enabling terrorism and allegations of government and military bias in addressing attacks against Christians perpetuated mistrust in state institutions. These narratives amplified existing religious and ethnic divisions, framing the conflict as systemic and intentional.
Incidents such as the torture of an Igbo trader in Bauchi and the burning of churches in Plateau State highlighted the exploitation of ethnic and religious tensions by online actors, further fuelling polarisation and calls for retaliation. Self-defence narratives, especially those encouraging Christians to arm themselves, emerged as a direct response to perceived government inaction but risk escalating the cycle of violence. Meanwhile, the framing of Plateau State as a site of ethno-religious conflict reinforced identity-based divisions, discouraging reconciliation and peacebuilding.
Positive stories, though less frequent, demonstrated the potential for interfaith collaboration. For instance, Christian protesters protecting Muslims during prayer in Jos provided a powerful counter-narrative to divisive content. Similarly, celebrations like the Mauludi Festival in Bauchi showcased cultural resilience and religious unity, contrasting the region’s ongoing struggles with insecurity and poverty.
In Gombe, Boko Haram’s destruction of critical infrastructure raised concerns about governance and security, while debates around religious leadership exposed tensions within Islamic communities. The global recognition of a young Quran reciter from Gombe offered a rare moment of pride and a counter-narrative to division. Across the states, the interplay of socio-economic struggles, misinformation, and deeply rooted identity issues shaped the online discourse, demonstrating both the challenges and opportunities for fostering unity.