The Federal Government has provided assurance to Nigerians that, in its efforts to combat fake news and disinformation in the country, it remains committed to upholding the rights of individuals and preserving press freedom. Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, emphasized this commitment in an interview conducted in Abuja.
Idris urged Nigerians to actively contribute to the dissemination of accurate information, emphasizing the importance of promoting the truth and nothing but the truth. This statement reflects the government’s stance on addressing misinformation while maintaining a balance that respects individual rights and the freedom of the press.
“We must be in the forefront of advocating for truthful information all the time. Everything that is fake should not be promoted.
“This is because, it can lead to anarchy and destruction of lives and properties. And by the way, nobody will want his home, country, state or nation to be in tatters because somebody is encouraging fake news.
“Fake news should be condemned in all its ramifications. I have said that it is important for all of us to be careful in the way we navigate these waters. We know that we don’t want fake news,” he said.
The Minister further explained that there are people who are using so many platforms to provide credible information, adding that such is desirable and should be emulated.
“So, we must collectively come together and see ways and means by which these fake news can be tackled without necessarily trampling on the rights of the people, free press and freedom of information,” he said.
