The Maliya Media Reporters have recently identified a false news story circulating on a WhatsApp platform known as Kano News Room. This misleading information was disseminated by Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, who serves as the spokesperson for the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf. The story in question, titled “Ganduje Loses Grip As 44 Former Council Chairmen Defect to Barau APC Faction,” is not only baseless but also represents a significant instance of misinformation and mischief, likely orchestrated by Tofa while acting on behalf of the Kano State Governor.
A screenshot of the post reveals that Tofa shared this dubious story on the platform at precisely 4:32 PM on Friday, calling on journalists to attribute the information to anonymous sources. This practice raises serious ethical concerns, as it undermines the principles of responsible journalism. Instead of relying on anonymous sources, Tofa should have issued the story as an official statement from the Kano Government House, complete with his signature, to ensure transparency and accountability.
We commend the journalists who have demonstrated professionalism and a steadfast commitment to the ethical standards of journalism by questioning the validity of such claims. It is imperative that editors and publishers of both online and traditional media organizations take note of this incident of fake news, as it threatens the integrity of the media landscape.
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To clarify the facts, on Thursday, the former Chairmen from the 44 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kano State, led by Alhaji Muhammad Baffa Takai, the former Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Kano State chapter, were in Abuja not for any political maneuvering but to congratulate the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I Jibrin, on the establishment of the North West Development Commission (NWDC). During this meeting, which aimed to foster collaboration and development, there was no discussion regarding the APC or any other political party, either at the state or national level. Instead, the focus was on how to attract more projects and resources to Kano State, reflecting a commitment to progress and unity.
In light of these developments, we strongly urge Tofa to refrain from spreading falsehoods and fake news that could sow discord among our leaders in Kano and beyond. It is essential that our leaders, regardless of their political affiliations, are encouraged to work collaboratively for the betterment of Kano and the nation, aligning with the principles of the Renewed Hope Agenda. Promoting unity and constructive dialogue should be the priority for all political figures, as this is vital for the development and progress of our society.
Signed:
Comrade Adamu Abdullahi Karkasara.
Chairman, Maliya Media Reporters
August 16, 2024
