NYSDI urges CSOs, others to uphold accuracy, cautions against undermining national security

The National Youths Security and Development Initiative (NYSDI) has issued a strong appeal to the media, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and advocacy groups to ensure the accuracy of information shared with the public, particularly in light of the prevailing security concerns across the country.

During a press conference held in Abuja on Friday, the NYSDI Secretary, Charles Freeman, expressed the group’s alarm over the unintended role some media outlets and advocacy organizations might be playing in amplifying the activities of criminals and terrorists.

He stated: “We are so concerned about the spate of killings and wanton destruction of properties being perpetrated by criminals with no reason.It is a trying time for our country, but this organisation believe that it will soon come to an end.This organisation is concerned about the role of some so called advocacy groups, CSOs, NGOs and even some media organisations that are indirectly promoting the activities of the terrorists and criminals.”

Freeman criticized certain groups and media organizations for undermining the morale of troops by prioritizing narratives that could harm national security efforts.

“These Advocacy groups, CSOs, NGOs and media organisations have chosen to down play national security while upholding issues that affect morale of our troops who are daily making sacrifices for our country,” he said.

He referenced a recent incident involving a misrepresentation of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa, by an unnamed advocacy group.

“Recently, one advocacy group whether intentional, we can not say went all out to misrepresent the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Chris Musa.Regrettably the advocacy group twisted the narrative and attempted to politicize an issue as sensitive as national security,” Freeman noted.

Freeman also took aim at the media outlets that published the claims without seeking clarification.

“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.Messages will be sent down the line deepening the crisis,” he warned.

Quoting the Defence Headquarters, Freeman reiterated support for General Musa, commending his commitment to safeguarding all Nigerians.

“We want to quote and agree with the Defence Headquarters that ‘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.’Under the CDS, the Armed Forces of Nigeria has shown commitment and sincerity in its approach to solving the crisis.”

He called on media and civil society to be mindful of their influence and responsibilities in shaping public discourse and supporting national unity.

“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.We especially appeal to our media friends, if possible verify information before sending it out,” Freeman concluded.