A non-partisan advocacy group, National Youths Security and Development initiative (NYSDI) has tasked Civil Society Organisations (NGOs), Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), advocacy groups and the media organizations to be patriotic in their reportage of the ongoing fight against insecurity.
The group berated an advocacy group whether intentional, and some sections of the media (not Blueprint ) , misrepresented the views of Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Chris Musa, by twisting the narrative and attempting to politicize an issue as sensitive as national security.
The group, while expressing concern about the spate of killings and wanton destruction of properties being perpetrated by criminals with no reason, said it is a trying time that will soon come to an end.
Addressing a press in Abuja on Friday, NYSDI Secretary
Charles Freeman, wondered why some advocacy groups, CSOs, NGOs and media organisations have chosen to downplay national security while upholding issues that affect morale of our troops who are daily making sacrifices for our country.
“For the media organisations that carried the story, we feel it was necessary to get clarification before taking it to the public.
“The issue of national security and current challenges we are facing is too sensitive to be misrepresented,” he said.
Siding with the CDS, he quoted the Defence Headquarters “General Musa has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to protecting all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. He has worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of citizens, promote civil-military cooperation, and uphold the values of professionalism, compassion, and integrity in military operations.”
He said under the CDS, the Armed Forces of Nigeria has shown commitment and sincerity in its approach to solving the crisis.
“We are pleading with advocacy groups, CSOs, NGOs and media organisations to exercise restraint in their activities. We must not destroy what the Armed Forces are doing to restore peace across the country.
“Across the country, our troops are paying huge sacrifices. Your role can either make or mar their efforts,” he said.