By Dahiru M. Lawal
The latest media scuffle between Nigeria’s Minister of Info and Nationwide Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, underscores the hazards of sensational headlines and misinformation in shaping public discourse and distorting actuality.
Governor Zulum, in a shocking public outburst, labelled a federal minister as “naive,” amongst different unflattering phrases, based mostly on a misrepresented media report. Whereas Minister Idris commendably selected to not reply in sort, the incident raises critical considerations concerning the media literacy of public officers—particularly within the context of delicate nationwide safety issues. Extra troubling is the best way this controversy injects politicized narratives into the pressing challenge of insurgency resurgence within the Northeast, doubtlessly undermining joint efforts towards Boko Haram and ISWAP by means of the weaponization of disinformation.
At a time when Nigeria faces fragile safety challenges, it’s unlucky—and albeit irresponsible—for Governor Zulum to behave on unverified claims and assault a federal official who has repeatedly demonstrated professionalism and dedication to nationwide unity. The circulating declare that Minister Idris dismissed the Governor’s safety considerations and urged others to disregard him has no foundation in reality and solely serves to inflame tensions.
After reviewing official statements and credible information sources, there is no such thing as a verifiable proof to assist the allegations made towards the Minister. The one recorded occasion the place Mohammed Idris publicly rebuked a state over safety was in September 2023, when he cautioned Zamfara State officers towards politicizing federal rescue efforts. Even then, his place was framed round fostering cooperation, not dismissiveness.
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The truth is, the Minister has constantly acknowledged progress in Borno’s safety panorama. As just lately as October 2023, he famous that rebel management had been eradicated from all native authorities areas within the state, with safety bettering by over 85 p.c. His latest feedback on renewed terror threats have been distorted by sensationalist reportage, and reacting to such distortions with public outbursts is unbecoming of the esteemed workplace Governor Zulum holds.
The Minister has since categorically denied making any disparaging remarks about Governor Zulum and reaffirmed the federal authorities’s full assist for all state governments combating insecurity. This could have prompted discreet consultations, not public condemnation pushed by misrepresentation.
One of these untimely confrontation is counterproductive. Slightly than focusing on a federal minister who has proven poise and restraint, Governor Zulum would do nicely to concentrate on fostering collaboration and belief—elements important for defeating the remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP.
There are classes in historical past. Below President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, then-Governor Kashim Shettima—now Vice President—persistently sought federal help by means of quiet diplomacy and constant advocacy. It wasn’t sensational rhetoric that introduced outcomes, however perseverance anchored in mutual respect.
Governor Zulum should tread rigorously. The battle towards terrorism won’t be received by means of ego, emotion, or media dramatics. It calls for strategic considering, verified info, and respect for institutional collaboration. Now greater than ever, leaders should rise above misinformation and information with readability and foresight.
The individuals of Borno deserve greater than political distractions—they deserve outcomes. They want a management that unites, not divides; that builds bridges, not burns them. Governor Zulum ought to channel his ardour into constructive partnership, not polarizing rhetoric. That’s the path to peace—and victory.
Dahiru M. Lawal is Govt Secretary of the Community of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR). He writes from Abuja by way of [email protected].
