One of the functions of the Social Media Aides (in my own understanding) is to enlighten the public on the workings of the Government and clarify positions where they are twisted. In doing this, they project the image of the Governor or whoever they were employed to.
Recently, some Aides, in an attempt to show that their master(s) are saints, have been on collision course with the public where instead of providing convincing reasons to convince people especially in an argument, resort to lies, name calling, innuendos and blackmail of anyone whose opinion is contrary to what they preach or adversely affects their bosses.
In recent times and in this democratic dispensation, more arrests were made of people with discerning opinions than in setting the records straight. In this futile journey, more harm is done than good thus defeating the purpose for which they were employed.
It should be noted that no one has monopoly of knowledge and individual perception of right and wrong is shaped by many factors and circumstances depending on the angle from which one views a particular issue or phenomena.
To castigate an individual for contributing to how he is supposed to be governed especially by those he elected is certainly an unhealthy development. Look deep into the message and not the messenger.
As the face of the government in the social media, you do not have to respond to all allegations. Doing so gives more relevance to the issue which would have otherwise died down. Where the issue merit response, be tactful, civil and avoid all forms of confrontation. Your job is to enlighten and not to engage in combat. Where the issue raised is germane and you realise that your boss has faltered there, be brave and brief him so that together, you may achieve a win-win situation.
Opinions as to how government ought to be run, what policies are good and are impacting on the lives of people, what policies are bad and are having a negative effect on the people are freely given on these platforms (without consulting fees) and in newspapers freely by those who meant good for the government. These should be read and viewed with an open mind and the take-aways noted for further deliberations and action.
When this is done, you have opened a two-way communication between the people and the government and the greatest beneficiary is the government which in the final analysis will be assessed by the same people through the ballot boxes.
Bulama Adamu
Tsangayar Mallam Dan Mallam
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