OSAS EMMANUEL
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government has announced plans to take legal action against Daily Trust for what it describes as misinformation and fake news regarding the Samoa agreement.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this disclosure on Saturday at the National Press Centre in Abuja. The Minister stated that the government would file an official complaint with the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN) regarding the Daily Trust report.
Idris emphasised that the government would seek redress in court for what it considers misleading and false reporting. He noted, “The Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has maintained an open relationship with the media. This aligns with the President’s democratic philosophy and his lifelong commitment to democracy and human rights.”
He continued, “This administration has been very tolerant of media criticism and has upheld citizens’ rights to freedom of expression. However, it is disheartening that some elements are abusing this freedom. We are alarmed by the level of reckless reporting and statements from some media organizations that threaten national security and stability.”
The Minister expressed concern about what he described as a pattern of irresponsible journalism by Daily Trust. He cited several instances of what he termed “jejune and mischievous publications,” including reports on the Niger Republic coup and alleged foreign military bases in Nigeria, which he claims lacked evidence and credibility.
Idris specifically condemned a recent Daily Trust report that falsely accused the government of signing a deal to promote LGBTQ rights. He called the allegation “despicable and wicked,” noting that it was not supported by any evidence in the signed document. He added that such unfounded reports had misled respected religious leaders and heightened public tensions.
Despite these provocations, Idris said the government had refrained from taking drastic measures, opting instead for a lawful and civil approach. “While past governments clamped down on the media for lesser infractions, we are following the path of civility and the rule of law,” he said.
The Minister concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to ethical media and free speech, warning that fake news and disinformation that threaten national peace and security would not be tolerated.
“This afternoon, I have the Honourable Minister of Budget and National Planning to provide more clarity on this issue. Beyond this, the Federal Government is lodging a formal complaint to the NPAN Ombudsman regarding this irresponsible reporting. Additionally, we will use every lawful means to seek redress in the court of law,” Idris said.
The Federal Government reiterates its friendly policy towards ethical media and free speech, while taking a firm stance against misinformation and disinformation.
