The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has raised concerns over what it described as misleading and exaggerated media reports on the counter-terrorism activities of the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), especially in the wake of a recent security incident in Kwara State.

The group said the involvement of civilian forces alongside the military is a long-established component of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism framework and should not be portrayed as an anomaly.

In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the CNG accused some media organisations of allowing political interests to shape their reporting, warning that such narratives could worsen tensions within the country’s fragile security environment.

According to the group, the use of civilian volunteers dates back to the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan and was later formalised under the late President Muhammadu Buhari with the creation of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Borno State to confront Boko Haram insurgents.

Charanchi said: “These civilian outfits have proven invaluable, as they consist of local indigenes who possess an intimate understanding of their communities and the intricate terrains in which these conflicts unfold. Their contributions have been pivotal in reclaiming territories and restoring a semblance of peace in areas ravaged by violence.”

He expressed concern over what he termed a growing pattern of sensational reporting, adding: “However, in recent weeks, we have observed a troubling trend wherein unscrupulous politicians use certain media outlets, particularly those based in the southern regions of Nigeria to engage in sensationalist reporting.”

According to him, “This reporting not only exaggerates the realities on the ground but also fails to acknowledge the complexities of the security situation. Instead of fostering a nuanced understanding, such narratives tend to fan the flames of discontent and exacerbate existing divisions among the Nigerian populace.”

Charanchi stressed the responsibility of the media in shaping public opinion, noting: “It is with a sense of urgency that we call attention to the responsibility of media practitioners in our nation. The Coalition of Northern Groups recognizes the critical role that the media plays in shaping public perception and discourse.”

He added that, “However, we must assert that the current trajectory of reporting on security issues is not only irresponsible but also detrimental to the collective efforts aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.”

The CNG also lamented what it described as a persistent anti-government slant in some sections of the media. “We have noted with dismay the apparent anti-government bias that pervades a significant segment of the media landscape,” Charanchi said, while emphasising that criticism must be rooted in accuracy and professional ethics.

He noted that the group had often avoided publicly calling out media organisations, hoping for improved standards, particularly on sensitive security matters.

The statement further highlighted the role of the CJTF in the fight against insurgency in Borno State, pointing out their controlled access to arms and disarmament after operations.

According to the CNG, “This arrangement underscores the critical partnership between civilian volunteers and military forces, a dynamic exemplified during Inspector General Alkali’s tenure, when the detention of civilian hunters was countered by the Director General of the DSS advocating for their release due to their invaluable contributions.”

The group warned that current political manoeuvres mirror tactics previously used to destabilise governments. “However, the CNG warns that current political machinations are reminiscent of past tactics employed to undermine governmental stability, particularly during President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration,” the statement read.

The CNG urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remain alert to politically motivated actions that could weaken coordination among security agencies, recalling how inter-agency rivalry in the past undermined efforts to tackle insecurity.

It also called on media owners and professional bodies, including the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigerian Guild of Editors, and the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN), to strengthen internal regulation and enforce ethical standards in security reporting.

Charanchi added: “The dissemination of news regarding security issues should be approached with the utmost care and consideration, recognizing the potential ramifications of sensational reporting on the fabric of our society.”

He continued: “Regrettably, the entrenched bias exhibited by certain media houses becomes glaring whenever matters related to the Office of the National Security Adviser are reported. This trend not only undermines the credibility of the media but also poses a significant threat to the unity and stability of our nation.”

The group said the Federal Government must intervene to address the situation, urging balanced and responsible reporting. “We implore the media to recognize that editorial policies and ethical considerations should not be sacrificed at the altar of sensationalism,” Charanchi said.

He further stressed: “The pursuit of higher viewership or readership should not come at the cost of public safety and national cohesion.”

Reaffirming its position, the CNG said it remained committed to promoting responsible journalism in Nigeria, calling for a collaborative media environment that informs rather than divides.

“As we navigate the complexities of our security situation, let us strive for a media environment that informs rather than inflames, that educates rather than divides. It is only through such diligence that we can hope to build a more secure and harmonious Nigeria for all,” the statement concluded.