Refrain from granting undue publicity to criminals, minister tells media professionals

Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, has appealed to media professionals to refrain from granting undue publicity to criminal elements in the country.

Idris spoke on Wednesday at the ministerial press briefing held at the National Press Centre in Abuja.

The minister noted the critical role of the media in shaping public perception, adding that terrorists and criminal groups often use these avenues to spread fear, propagate disinformation, and recruit followers.

He urged journalists and editors to adopt a responsible and patriotic approach to reporting these issues, by avoiding sensational headlines and refusing to serve as amplifiers of terror propaganda.

“The media, as gatekeepers and partners in nation-building, have a crucial role to play in supporting our military’s morale by highlighting their successes and sacrifices,” Idris said.

“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.

“These are not freedom fighters; they are murderers, kidnappers, and destroyers, and they must be presented as such.”

The minister also noted that federal government is “actively” investing in military capacity through the acquisition of modern equipment, enhanced intelligence, and strategic partnerships.

Idris said the press briefing series is a forum that  allows ministers to update Nigerians on the key achievements, ongoing initiatives, and policy directions of their various ministries.

He commended the media for their continued support and their broader role in promoting public awareness of government initiatives.

“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 added.