The Federal Government has announced its intention to pursue legal action against Daily Trust Newspapers over what it describes as misinformation and fake news concerning the Samoa Agreement.
On Saturday, at the National Press Centre in Abuja, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, revealed that the government plans to file an official complaint with the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN) against Daily Trust. Idris emphasised that the government will seek redress in court for what it views as misleading and false reporting.
“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,” Idris stated.
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.”
Idris expressed concern over 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 claimed lacked evidence and credibility.
Specifically condemning a recent Daily Trust report that accused the government of signing a deal to promote LGBTQ rights, Idris 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.
