Rita Odafe
Government Urges Media to Limit Coverage of Terrorism
The federal government under Tinubu has called on journalists to refrain from giving excessive focus to terrorist groups and other criminal entities that threaten national safety.
Speaking at the seventh Ministerial Press Briefing in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized how the media can shape public views and enhance security measures in the country.
He acknowledged that the media plays a critical role in supporting military morale by highlighting their achievements and sacrifices.
“We should not give these groups the attention they crave. It’s essential to keep them out of the spotlight and report them accurately as criminals, avoiding any glorification or legitimization of their deceitful narratives,” Idris remarked.
The Minister noted that terrorist organizations often use media and social platforms to spread fear, misinformation, and recruit new members.
To counter this, he urged journalists to adopt a responsible and nationalistic approach to reporting, avoiding sensationalism and unintentional amplification of terror messages.
“These individuals are not freedom fighters; they are murderers and kidnappers who must be portrayed correctly,” he stated.
Highlighting President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in boosting National Security, Idris spoke about the significant investments being made in military capabilities, including advanced equipment and enhanced intelligence operations.
He also mentioned that the series of ministerial press briefings serve as a vital platform for updates on ministries’ achievements, ongoing projects, and policy directions.
“This interactive format, broadcast on national TV and streamed online, reaffirms our dedication to transparency, accountability, and engaging the public,” the Minister added.
Idris praised the media for their support of the Ministerial Briefing Series and their broader role in informing the public about government actions.
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Abbas, also shared milestones achieved within their respective ministries during the briefing.
