‘They thrive on attention’ — Lagbaja asks media to stop amplifying terrorists’ activities

Taoreed Lagbaja, chief of army staff (COAS), has urged media practitioners to stop amplifying the activities of terrorists and other criminal elements.

Lagbaja spoke on Wednesday during the Nigerian Army civil-military cooperation media chat for the first quarter of 2024.

The media chat, with the theme “Imperatives of military-media partnership for the attainment of national Security”, was held in Asaba, Delta state capital.

Lagbaja was represented by Jamal Abdusalam, the general officer commanding (GOC), 6 division of the Nigerian Army.

The COAS condemned the killing of 17 soldiers at Okuama community in Bomadi LGA of the state.

He said the army is aware of the difficulties presented by the current security landscape in the country, adding that urgent steps are being taken to address the situation.

He added that the army also recognises the role of the media as a “vital link between the military and the public in providing essential information, shaping public opinion, and holding institutions accountable”.

“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,” he said.

“Through accurate and responsible reporting, the media plays a crucial role in informing citizens, fostering dialogue, and strengthening national security.”

Lagbaja said terrorists and other criminal elements thrive on attention, noting that they use publicity to instil fear in the citizens.

“I, therefore, take this moment to urge the media to refrain from inadvertently amplifying the activities of these undesirable elements,” he added.

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