The Office of the Minister of Information and National Orientation has reacted to a misleading headline by an online publication suggesting that the minister, Mohammed Idris, dismissed recent concerns raised by the governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, regarding the security situation in the state.
In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja, the minister’s media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, described the report as “categorically false and a gross distortion of the minister’s remarks.”
He stated that at no point did the minister say, “Ignore Zulum, Boko Haram has not taken over Borno.”
“Such a headline is not only sensational but deliberately crafted as an act of misinformation aimed at stoking public misunderstanding and distracting from the serious work the federal government is undertaking to address security challenges,” he said.
In his response to media inquiries on Governor Zulum’s remarks, he acknowledged that while the federal government has made significant progress in restoring peace and security across many parts of the country, some areas continue to face security challenges.
He emphasised the ongoing efforts by the military and security agencies, the sustained investments in security hardware and intelligence, and the federal government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism and banditry under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.
He also noted that the minister had called on all stakeholders, including state governments, to continue partnering with the federal government to bring lasting peace to affected communities.
“The minister’s comments were intended to provide context on the progress made, not to dismiss or downplay legitimate concerns,” he said.
“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 added.
