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Information Minister Refutes Claims: Tinubu Never Ordered Journalists’ Arrests Despite Media Criticisms

Information Minister Refutes Claims: Tinubu Never Ordered Journalists’ Arrests Despite Media Criticisms

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has strongly refuted claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ever ordered the arrest or harassment of journalists, regardless of the nature of their criticism or reportage. The Minister made this assertion on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, while receiving a delegation from the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) in Abuja.

Responding to concerns about media freedom and instances where critical reports have reportedly led to challenges for journalists, Idris stated with conviction that President Tinubu is a “true democrat who respects the rule of law.” He affirmed that despite facing “negative criticism and alleged defamation of character” from some journalists and members of the public, the President has never given him a “marching order to arrest or harass anyone.”

“There are times when the media instigate tension, but Tinubu never urged me to alter the narrative, lie, arrest or harass the perpetrators,” Idris told the editors, emphasizing the Federal Government’s recognition of the media as the “fourth estate of the realm” and its indispensable role in national operations.

The Minister stressed that the Tinubu administration is committed to fostering a media-friendly environment and should not be judged by “isolated incidents” that might lead to conclusions about an intent to gag the press. He reiterated his continuous engagement with media bodies such as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the NGE, and the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) to address any concerns constructively. “I have always said that when we do good praise us, and when we are not doing well or going overboard, tell us constructively so that we can improve,” he added.

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Idris also highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to press freedom through initiatives like the impending establishment of the UNESCO Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Centre in Abuja, which is currently in its final ratification stage. He described this as a significant achievement that will enhance media literacy and help combat the spread of fake news and misinformation.

While the Minister’s statement aims to reassure the media, human rights organizations and professional bodies have previously voiced concerns about instances of journalists’ arrests and alleged clampdowns, particularly related to the Cybercrime Act. President Tinubu himself, in his Democracy Day speech on June 12, 2025, underscored his commitment to free speech, famously stating, “Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so.” The Minister’s remarks align with this presidential stance, seeking to reinforce the administration’s dedication to an open and accountable democratic space.

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