A university lecturer, Prof. Virginia Ejiofor, has expressed deep concern over the growing abuse of Information Technology (IT), especially among young people, urging individuals, organizations, and governments to take collective action to address the trend.

Ejiofor, a Professor of Computer Science at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, made the call while delivering the institution’s 115th Inaugural Lecture, titled “Information Technology: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.”

She described IT as a “double-edged sword” — a tool capable of driving human advancement but also a potential weapon for harm if misused.

“Information Technology has revolutionized communication, improved healthcare, education, agriculture, business, and enhanced governance and public service delivery,” she said. “Its positive impacts on economic growth, innovation, and global connectivity are undeniable.”

However, Ejiofor cautioned that alongside these benefits lie significant risks, including cybersecurity threats, privacy violations, fake news, job displacement, cybercrime, addiction, and mental health challenges.

“The accompanying dangers—from cyberattacks and data breaches to ethical abuses and societal disruptions—cannot be ignored. Even more alarming are the deliberate exploitations of IT for criminal and harmful activities that erode public trust and endanger security,” she warned.

The professor urged stakeholders to harness IT responsibly by promoting digital literacy, enforcing cyber laws, and fostering ethical online behavior.

“The future of IT will depend on our collective ability to harness its good, confront its bad, and guard against its ugly sides,” she added.

Speaking on the forthcoming Anambra governorship election, Ejiofor also warned against the spread of misinformation and disinformation, urging voters to verify information before accepting or sharing it.

“The electorate must be vigilant and verify every piece of information that comes their way to avoid being misled,” she said.