FG warns media, influencers against promoting bandits, terrorists

The Federal Government has urged journalists and social media influencers to stop giving bandits and terrorists the publicity they seek through news reports and online content.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the call on Monday during the maiden edition of the Arewa Media Summit held in Kano.

The summit was organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Public Enlightenment, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz.

Idris said the media plays a crucial role in promoting national unity and preventing violent groups from using publicity to spread fear among Nigerians.
“The media has an indispensable role in denying violent extremists the publicity they seek while promoting unity, resilience and hope,” the minister said.

He stressed that democracy thrives when government remains accountable, citizens participate responsibly, and the media carries out its constitutional duties with professionalism, fairness and integrity.
The minister noted that technological advancement, particularly the widespread use of smartphones, has transformed the way information is produced and shared, making almost everyone a publisher.

However, he warned that the same technology has contributed to the spread of fake news and misinformation capable of threatening national unity and weakening public confidence.
Earlier, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz said the summit was aimed at strengthening engagement between government, citizens and the media through accountability, responsibility and ethical communication.

He urged social media influencers with large audiences to verify information before publishing and avoid content capable of causing division, especially as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.