The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has said at no time did he dismiss the security alarm Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State raised.
The minister’s spokesperson, Rabiu Ibrahim, stated this on Thursday in Abuja, adding tha his principal never said people should ignore Zulum’s claim that ‘Boko Haram is taking over Borno.”
He said such perception or headline was not only sensational but misleading, adding that such report only stoked public misunderstanding and distraction from the serious work the Federal Government was doing to tackle insecurity in Nigeria.
The minister said while the government had made significant progress in restoring peace and security in many parts of the country, some areas continued to face security challenges and acknowledged the ongoing efforts by the military and other security forces as well as the sustained investments in security hardware and intelligence.
Idris said the Tinubu administration was committed to eradicating terrorism and banditry across the country and called on all stakeholders, including state governments, to continue partnering with the government with a view to bringing lasting peace to the affected communities.
“We urge media platforms to uphold the ethics of responsible journalism by avoiding sensationalism and publishing only verified and accurate information.
“The task of rebuilding peace and security in our nation is a collective one that must not be undermined by reckless and irresponsible reportage,” he said.
