EXCLUSIVE: Force PRO warns against spread of false security narratives, urges responsible media use
By ABIRHIRE THOMAS
“The media and communication stakeholders have a critical role to play in national security. Do not allow your platform to be weaponized for the propagation of subversive ideology or dissident narratives,” he said.
The Nigeria Police Force has cautioned journalists, social media users, and members of the public against the dissemination of unverified security-related information, warning that false narratives could undermine national security efforts and compromise ongoing operations.
The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), CSP Iniedu Anietie Okokon, gave the warning in an exclusive interview with The DEFENDER in Abuja the Nigeria’s capital, stressing the need for responsible communication and public support for security agencies in the fight against crime and insecurity.
According to the police spokesperson, the sensitive nature of security operations often requires operational discretion, making it inappropriate to release information that has not been verified.
“I would prefer to maintain operational silence rather than disseminate false information,” Okokon said, adding that security agencies are engaged in extensive tactical deployments and strategic operations that may not always be visible to the public.
He expressed concern over what he described as the increasing activities of “keyboard warriors” who comment on security issues without adequate knowledge, noting that such actions could jeopardize ongoing operations and mislead the public.
Okokon also said many critics fail to appreciate the sacrifices made daily by officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force in combating crime, maintaining public order, and protecting lives and property across the country.
He urged journalists, media organisations, and digital content creators to uphold the principles of responsible journalism by verifying information before publication and promoting fact-based reporting.
“The media and communication stakeholders have a critical role to play in national security. Do not allow your platform to be weaponized for the propagation of subversive ideology or dissident narratives,” he said.
The police spokesperson warned against the use of media platforms to spread misinformation capable of inciting public distrust or weakening confidence in security institutions.
The advisory comes amid growing concerns over the rapid circulation of unverified security-related content on social media. Security experts have consistently warned that while public scrutiny remains essential in a democratic society, the spread of false information can hinder intelligence gathering, disrupt security operations, and create unnecessary panic.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and called on Nigerians to support security agencies by verifying information before sharing it and reporting suspicious activities through appropriate channels.
