Senator Shehu Sani has criticized what he sees as inconsistent media labeling of violent incidents throughout Nigeria, pointing out the tendency to apply selective terminology based on the region involved. In a post on his X account on December 8, 2025, the former Kaduna lawmaker highlighted the discrepancies in reporting similar crimes in northern and South-Eastern states.
Sani remarked that when violence erupts in northern regions, the perpetrators are quickly categorized as “Bandits” or “Terrorists,” terms he believes are clear and accurate. Conversely, he observed that in the South-East, particularly in Anambra State, the media often uses ambiguous terms like “armed assailants,” “hoodlums,” “gunmen,” or “unknown gunmen” for comparable incidents.
His comments were prompted by a recent attack on a church in Anambra that reportedly resulted in two deaths and the destruction of buildings. Sani noted that despite the seriousness of this incident, media coverage lacked specific classifications.
He characterized both scenarios as identical acts of murder and criminality, drawing attention to what he perceives as a double standard in media reporting. This selective language, he argued, could create confusion, diminish accountability, and impede unified efforts to address insecurity across Nigeria.
Sani’s observations resonate with ongoing national discussions surrounding security narratives, regional perceptions, and the influence of language on public understanding and counterterrorism initiatives. View, More,
Explore More News By Using The Button.