The Office of the Minister of Information and National Orientation has refuted a misleading caption published by an online media outlet, which suggested that Minister, Mohammed Idris dismissed the recent concerns raised by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State regarding the security situation in the state.
In a statement issued by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, the ministry categorically denied the accuracy of the headline, which claimed that Minister Idris had said, “Ignore Zulum, Boko Haram is not taking over Borno.”
The statement called the report not only sensational but also a deliberate distortion of the Minister’s words intended to spread misinformation and divert attention from the federal government’s ongoing efforts to tackle security challenges in Nigeria.
The Minister’s response to the media’s inquiry, according to the press release, acknowledged the progress the Federal Government has made in restoring peace and security across the country. However, he also recognized that some areas, including parts of Borno State, continue to face serious security issues.
“The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has made significant strides in addressing security challenges,” Minister Idris said.
“While we have made progress, some areas still require focused attention, and we are committed to eradicating terrorism and banditry. The ongoing efforts by our military and security forces, supported by sustained investments in security hardware and intelligence, demonstrate our dedication to restoring peace.”
Minister Idris further emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing Nigeria’s security concerns, urging all stakeholders, including state governments, to work closely with the federal government to bring lasting peace to affected communities.
“The task of rebuilding peace and security is a collective effort. We must all join hands and avoid actions that could distract from the serious work at hand,” he added.
The statement concluded with a call for responsible journalism. “We urge media platforms to uphold the ethics of responsible journalism by avoiding sensationalism and ensuring that only verified and accurate information is published.
“The job of rebuilding peace and security must not be undermined by reckless and irresponsible reportage,” the Minister’s office stated.
