Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Sokoto State, Mr. Saidu Mohammed, has urged journalists to remain committed to the core principles of verification and authentication of information before publishing reports.
Mohammed made the call while receiving the leadership of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council, led by its Chairman, Ankeli Emmanuel, during a courtesy visit to the command.
The DSS Director described the media as a critical partner in promoting peace, national unity and stability, stressing that collaboration between security agencies and journalists remains essential in safeguarding the country.
According to him, “the media is a critical stakeholder in the business of not only disseminating information but also ensuring peace and stability through their reportage.”
He appealed to journalists to embrace responsible and developmental journalism by ensuring that information released to the public is properly verified through authentic sources, especially reports capable of creating panic among citizens.
Mohammed cautioned against the dissemination of unconfirmed casualty figures and sensitive security information that could heighten tension within communities.
While reaffirming the commitment of the DSS to maintaining cordial relations with the media, he assured journalists of the agency’s continued support and collaboration in the interest of national development.
He emphasized that both the media and security agencies share a common responsibility of working towards the overall good and stability of the country.
Earlier in his remarks, Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Ankeli Emmanuel, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between journalists and the DSS in Sokoto State.
He noted that the media, as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, remains an indispensable partner in nation-building and democratic development.
Ankeli further stated that Nigeria’s image and reputation at both national and international levels should be of concern to every journalist, stressing the need for patriotism and professionalism in the discharge of their constitutional duties.
He added that closer collaboration between the media and security agencies would help in promoting peace, public trust and responsible dissemination of information.
Members of the Correspondents’ Chapel delegation included Vice Chairman, Adamu Suleiman of The Nation Newspaper; Secretary, Musa Ubandawaki of Vanguard Newspaper; Assistant Secretary, Olakunle Maruf of Tribune Newspaper; Treasurer, Umar Danladi Ado of Triumph Newspaper; and Auditor, Shafa’atu Suleiman of The Sun Newspaper.
