Why Nigeria Must Reject Sensationalism In Matters Of Security -By Danjuma Lamido

In recent days, Nigerians have been inundated with sensational claims and alarmist narratives pushed by Omoyele Sowore and amplified through Sahara Reporters concerning security developments in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.

Chief among these is the reckless claim that “no fewer than 162 Nigerians have been killed in a bloody attack on Woro community.” This narrative, deliberately circulated without responsible verification, has once again exposed a pattern of misinformation, blackmail and malicious publication.

National security is too serious an issue to be reduced to propaganda.

Distortion of Facts and the Abuse of Public Trust

Contrary to Sowore’s inflammatory claims, available video and photographic evidence from the affected communities, security agencies, and independent local sources do not support the exaggerated casualty figures being peddled for political mileage.

While there were indeed troubling security incidents in parts of Kaiama LGA which deserve sober attention and accountability, deliberately inflating numbers and pushing panic-driven narratives amounts to disinformation, not activism.

Responsible advocacy demands accuracy, restraint and respect for the lives involved, not sensationalism designed to provoke outrage and delegitimise state institutions.

There Is No “Illegal IGP” in Nigeria

Another misleading claim making the rounds is the assertion that Nigeria is operating under an “illegal Inspector-General of Police.” This claim collapses entirely when set against the law.

The appointment and continued tenure of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, are firmly grounded in Section 18(8A) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020 (as amended in 2024). This provision clearly stipulates that:

“Any person appointed to the office of Inspector-General of Police shall remain in office until the completion of the four-year tenure stated in their letter of appointment, regardless of age or length of service”.

This provision expressly overrides the mandatory retirement thresholds of 60 years of age or 35 years in service outlined in Section 18(8).

The law is unambiguous. Nigeria does not have an illegal IGP; there is only one duly appointed in strict compliance with the law of the land.

Efficiency and Professionalism Under IGP Egbetokun

Since assuming office, the Nigeria Police Force under IGP Egbetokun has demonstrated growing institutional efficiency anchored on professionalism, universalism and meritocracy.

These values have translated into improved coordination, faster response times and a more intelligence-driven approach to internal security challenges across the federation.

In response to the security concerns in Kwara State, the IGP ordered a comprehensive deployment of police tactical assets, including specialised units and intelligence operatives, to stabilise the affected areas, protect civilians and restore public confidence.

This proactive response directly contradicts claims of indifference or incompetence.

A Call for Responsible Conduct

Omoyele Sowore must, for once, choose responsibility over recklessness. Activism does not confer a license to spread falsehoods, blackmail public institutions or publish malicious and unverifiable reports.

Sahara Reporters, in particular, must reflect on the damage caused by repeated dissemination of exaggerated or misleading security narratives in a fragile national environment.

Nigeria deserves criticism rooted in facts, not fiction; reform driven by truth, not hysteria.

Conclusion

Security challenges must be addressed with honesty, legality and collective responsibility. Misrepresenting facts, attacking lawful institutions and misleading the public do nothing to honour the victims of violence or advance national progress.

Truth remains the strongest foundation for justice, and it must not be sacrificed on the altar of political opportunism.

Danjuma Lamido write from Yola, Adamawa State. email: danjumalamido2011@gmail.com