Army Warns Journalists Against Investigative Reporting In North East
Brig.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, Acting Director Defence Information[/caption]
The Defence Headquarters has warned journalists against embarking on investigation for documentary purpose in the restive North East.
A statement on Wednesday by the Army’s spokesman, Brig.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, advised journalists to seek permission from it before proceeding with such, adding that they would be at risk if they disregard authorization from the military authorities.
The statement further noted that the practice was not only capable of jeopardizing the success of the on-going military operations in the area but also posed great concern to the safety of such journalists.
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The statement read, “Much as the military is not trying to gag the press from carrying out their legitimate duties, permission should be sought from the Armed Forces before embarking on such venture.
“This will enable adequate security to be provided for such journalists by the military. Even though Boko Haram has been substantially decimated any roaming journalist could be a target of unsuspecting fleeing Boko Haram member and this will not be in the best interest of media organizations and the nation at large.
“It is, therefore, advised that any journalist desirable of covering conflict areas should seek permission from the military hierarchy so that adequate security arrangement could be provided by the troops on the ground.
“It is also the responsibility of the military to safeguard the lives and property of the Nigerian citizenry including law abiding journalists in the theatre of operation and in Nigeria in general.”
