Journalists must be careful to verify what they discover, or risk increasing tensions and generating reprisal attacks based on nothing more than rumors. In January 2010, when news outlets started reporting another major conflict in Jos, rumors began to spread about mobs armed with knives and machetes around houses, mosques and churches. Witnesses reported different causes of the conflict: Some said it was because of the rebuilding of houses destroyed by riots in 2008, others a fight during a football match, or the burning of a church. Text messages also played a significant role in directly inciting violence with messages such as “slaughter them before they slaughter you. Kill them before they kill you.” At the same time, blogs regularly displayed photos of the victims of violence. The verification process is more crucial than ever in a situation where misperception and fear pervade all sides. It is essential for journalists to remove themselves from the passions of those involved, and verify the accuracy of accounts that narrate or visually feature ethnic or religious violence. Debunking a false rumor about a murderous rampage, or impending crisis, can literally save lives. As is the case elsewhere, in Jos social media perpetuate misinformation, while at the same time enabling journalists to connect and interact with members of the public as part of their work. Social media also provide a platform to respond to rumors, and verify information that ultimately creates the type of trust and transparency necessary to avoid an escalation of conflict. In Jos, the application of verification, in collaboration with the public, helps the media play a role in diffusing tension and containing conflict. It results in, and encourages, fair and accurate reporting that is sorely needed. While this is certainly not the only response needed to alleviate tensions, such reporting goes a long way towards dissipating the fear, suspicion and anger that is at the heart of ethnic and religious conflicts. 14