On Wednesday, Chief of Army Staff Taoreed Lagbaja charged the media to refrain from amplifying the activities of non-state actors and undesirable elements in the country.

The army chief gave the charge while delivering a keynote address at the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat, First Quarter 2024 in Asaba, Delta.

He decried the recent gruesome killings of officers and soldiers at Okuama in Delta.

Mr Lagbaja said the army was aware of the complexity and difficulties of the nation’s current security landscape and that urgent measures were being taken to contain the challenges.

He said, “In an era characterised by rapid information dissemination and evolving security threats, effective communication and transparency are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens. The Nigerian Army recognises the enormous impact of the media as a vital link between the military and the public in providing essential information, shapening public opinion and holding institutions accountable.

“Through accurate and responsible reporting, the media plays a crucial role in informing citizens, fostering dialogue, and strengthening our national security. Constitutionally, the military serves to defend the territorial integrity of Nigeria and safeguarding the country from external threats.”

He, therefore, condemned the dastardly and unprovoked killing of some of the troops carrying out their constitutional assignments in Okuama.

“The dastardly killing of the troops was executed in the most barbaric and cruel manner, which is unacceptable and condemnable. I, therefore, take this moment to urge the media to refrain from inadvertently amplifying the activities of these undesirable elements.

“Terrorists, insurgents and other deviant groups thrive on attention and exploit propaganda to instil fear in law-abiding citizens,” said the army chief.

(NAN)