Mohammed Idris, the minister of information and national orientation, has pleaded with the media professionals to stop granting undue publicity to terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements threatening the peace and security of the country.
He also stressed the indispensable role of media in shaping public knowledge and complementing national security efforts.
The minister stated this at the seventh edition of the 2025 ministerial press briefing series on Wednesday.
This is contained in a statement released by Rabiu Ibrahim, the special assistant on media to the Minister on Wednesday, May 7.
The statement stressed that the media, as the gatekeepers and partners in nation-building, have a crucial role to play in supporting our military’s morale by highlighting their successes and sacrifices
“We must deny these groups the undue publicity they crave. We must take them off the front pages and accurately report them as the criminals they are, without glorifying their acts or giving credence to their false narratives.”
READ MORE: Bloodbath in Kano: 20-Year-Old Arrested for Brutally Hacking Man to Death
While urging reporters and editors to adopt a responsible approach by avoiding sensational headlines and terror propaganda, the statement disclosed that terrorist and criminal groups often manipulate media coverage and social media platforms to spread fear, propagate disinformation, and recruit followers.
“These are not freedom fighters; they are murderers, kidnappers, and destroyers, and they must be presented as such,” he said.
It noted that the federal government is actively investing in military capacity through the acquisition of modern equipment, enhanced intelligence, and strategic partnerships.
READ ALSO: REVEALED: Wigwe’s Death Tied to Pilot Disorientation, Shocking Negligence by Helicopter Company
“Through this interactive platform, which is being broadcast live on national television stations and streamed across social media platforms, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to transparency, accountability, and public engagement,” he stated.
“He therefore commended the media for their continued support of the Ministerial Briefing Series and their broader role in promoting public awareness of government initiatives.”
Other ministers who briefed the media on the success of their ministries are Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, the minister of defence, and Alhaji Balarabe Abbas, the minister of environment.
