We Must Not Undermine Our Country With Irresponsible Reporting, Tinubu Tells Media
President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerian journalists to embrace responsible reporting, warning that careless coverage of insecurity could undermine the country’s fight against terrorism and embolden criminal groups.
Speaking on Thursday at the maiden State House Press Corps Presidential Dinner held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President said the media occupies a critical position in shaping public confidence and must avoid becoming a vehicle for those seeking to spread fear through violence.
Tinubu said security agencies have continued to record successes against criminal elements, including rescuing kidnapped victims and neutralising thousands involved in violent crimes.
He, however, cautioned that such efforts could be weakened if the media fails to exercise restraint in its reportage.
“We must not undermine our country with irresponsible reporting. If we do, we will have no safe space left, especially at a time when our nation is tackling security threats, neutralizing thousands of criminal elements, and rescuing hostages,” he said.
The President also appealed to journalists not to offer undue publicity to terrorists and kidnappers, insisting that “The media should not become an amplifier for those who wish to harm us.”
While reaffirming the role of a free press in a democratic society, Tinubu maintained that government and the media must work within their respective responsibilities to strengthen accountability, transparency and national security.
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