What Does "Propagandist" Eric Adams Stand to Gain For Defaming Nigeria?

By Akeem Alao

A disturbing case of misinformation has recently emerged following a Facebook post by the Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, who shared an unverified video claiming that a “genocide was launched against Christians in Nigeria.”

The video, which features graphic images of dead bodies, is not only unverified but also misleading. There is no such incident taking place in Nigeria.

It is deeply regrettable that a public figure of Adams’ status, with years of exposure and access to credible sources of information, could fall for cheap propaganda designed to incite fear and division.

The so-called footage he shared has been recycled multiple times from unrelated conflicts and tragedies across the world, now being circulated to falsely malign Nigeria.

Nigeria, while grappling with security challenges like many other nations including the United States, is not experiencing a genocide against Christians. Christians and Muslims coexist across the country as neighbours, colleagues, and partners in nation-building. Both the government and civil society organisations continue to work towards addressing insecurity and fostering unity among all religious and ethnic groups.

Adams’ actions are not just careless; they are dangerous. By lending his platform to fake narratives, he risks inflaming tensions, tarnishing Nigeria’s image, and misleading the international community. Misinformation of this kind undermines peace efforts and fuels unnecessary panic.

I don’t want to believe he intentionally joined the propagandists against Nigeria because he is allegedly preparing to take up a juice international appointment from President Trump after losing popular support for re-election as the mayor of New York City. As James Conte puts: ” Are we supposed to take you seriously? Did they offer you the job of being ambassador to Nigeria or something?”

I would advise Eric Adams to immediately retract his false post and tender a public apology to Nigerians home and abroad.

If truly he is a public advocate and unifier as he often claims, Eric should have known better that leaders, especially those with influence, ought to learn to always act responsibly in the age of disinformation. Facts, not sensational propaganda, must guide the global conversation on Nigeria and its people.

Falsehood may travel far, but the truth will always stand. Nigeria deserves fairness, accuracy, and respect.