“Gross Distortion” – Information Minister Corrects False Claims He Dismissed Gov Zulum’s Security Concerns

The Office of the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation has firmly rejected a media report suggesting that the Minister, Mohammed Idris , dismissed the security concerns raised by the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum.

In a statement signed by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, the report was described as “categorically false” and a “gross distortion” of the Minister’s actual remarks.

“At no time did the Honourable Minister say ‘Ignore Zulum, Boko Haram is not taking over Borno,’” the statement clarified.

According to the statement, the Minister, in response to media inquiries on Governor Zulum’s comments, had acknowledged that while significant gains have been recorded in the fight against insecurity, some regions, including parts of Borno, still face challenges.

He went on to highlight the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu , including ongoing military operations, investments in security infrastructure, and intelligence-driven approaches to tackling terrorism and banditry.

The Minister also reiterated the importance of cooperation between all levels of government, urging state authorities to maintain strong partnerships with the Federal Government in the collective mission to restore peace to affected communities.

The statement stressed that the Minister’s remarks were intended to provide factual context about progress made and not to undermine or belittle the concerns of Governor Zulum.

Calling on media houses to uphold journalistic integrity, the Minister’s office emphasized the responsibility of the press in supporting national unity and security.

“The task of rebuilding peace and security in our nation is a collective one that must not be undermined by reckless and irresponsible reportage,” the statement concluded.