Abbas Yushau Yusuf, Kano
The State Director of Security (DSS), Department of State Services, (DSS), Kano Command Hassan .I Muhammad has charged journalists in the New Media to collaborate with the Service in ensuring a safe, united and peaceful Nigeria.
He made the call on Wednesday in Kano when he received the excos and members of Association of Kano Online Journalists in his office.
According to him, the internet and social media platforms have become the easiest way of disseminating information which bad elements use in spreading fake news, disinformation and other inflammatory messages capable of causing division and igniting civil unrest.
He said, the presence of professional journalists in the New Media will no doubt weed out the above mentioned challenges the Federal Government has been battling to address.
“Your coming together under one umbrella has been long anticipated and long over due.
Through this association, you will help by providing the public with credible information which will counter negative narratives pushed out by some unpatriotic persons”.
Muhammad, tasked them to uphold all the journalistic code of conduct while reporting events bearing in mind, the peace and stability of the nation as paramount.
“Your job is very important, considering the role you play in the society, believe me, people often believe you more than any official statement”.
We urge you not to engage in reports that will demoralize the men of the security.
Security is broad, you too can help safeguard the nation by reporting successes and ongoing efforts by the nation’s security architecture to keep Nigeria Safe”, he added.
Furthermore, he applauded members of the association for not allowing themselves to be used recently to promote unconfirmed rumors of attack in the state which would have caused public panic.
The State Director assured the association of maximum cooperation and security in the course of their job.
Earlier, the secretary of the association, Yakubu Salisu, who doubles as the Acting Chairman, said they were at the command to formerly introduce the association and solicit the commands support.
He said, the association which consists of experienced journalists with background in the mainstream media was formed to harmonize and sanitize activities of reporters operating online in the state.
