Mohammed Idris Urges Media to Deny Terrorists, Bandits Prominent Publicity
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on media organisations across the country to avoid giving prominent coverage to terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups, warning that excessive publicity often serves the interests of criminal elements and could undermine ongoing security efforts.
Idris made the appeal on Thursday during a two-day National Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists in collaboration with the Department of State Services in Abuja.
Addressing journalists and media stakeholders, the minister stressed the importance of responsible reporting, noting that while the media has a duty to inform the public, it must also exercise discretion in matters affecting national security.
“Yes, we have to do our work. We have to report whatever happens, but you must know that the best reporter, the best editor, is the one who knows what not to report in the interest of nation-building,” Idris said.
He urged media houses to avoid placing the activities of terrorists and other criminal groups on front pages, arguing that such exposure provides the publicity they seek.
“Please, take these terrorists and criminals off your front pages. This is what they crave, free of charge. It saddens me when I see our front pages reporting the activities of these criminals while underplaying the achievements of our security agencies,” he added.
The minister emphasized that national security and media development are closely linked, noting that a peaceful and stable country is essential for the growth and sustainability of the media industry.
According to him, journalists should give greater attention to the sacrifices, bravery and operational successes of security personnel who continue to risk their lives in the defence of the country.
“We must have a Nigeria to report first before we can even have a union or any other media organisation. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that this nation survives,” he stated.
The summit brought together media practitioners, security officials and other stakeholders to discuss the role of the media in national security, information management and nation-building.
Participants also examined strategies for strengthening collaboration between the media and security agencies in addressing security challenges while promoting accurate, balanced and responsible reporting.
Mohammed Idris Urges Media to Deny Terrorists, Bandits Prominent Publicity