No journalist was hit by bullet at Govt House – Kano State Govt
The Kano State Government has debunked the report that went viral in the media space at the weekend that a journalist, Naziru Idris Ya’u, narrowly escaped death after being hit by a stray bullet in the Government House on Friday.
The Director-General of Media and Publicity, Government House, Sanusi Bature, clarified, that the report was a figment of imagination and complete falsehood.
The journalist works with Abubakar Rimi Television attached to the Kano State Government House.
Bature noted that contrary to reports making the rounds, the journalist sustained injuries from the metal debris from an ongoing construction at the Government House.
The statement read: “The attention of Kano State Government has been drawn to a one-sided media report on social media revealing that a journalist with the state Television station, attached to the Government house was hit by a stray bullet.
“The incident, which occurred amidst a flurry of misinformation, sparked widespread concern and speculation regarding the safety of journalists covering events at the government house.
“For clarity purposes, Naziru Yau, the reporter of the state television station was not hit by any stray bullet. Instead, he sustained injuries from the metal debris emanating from an ongoing construction at the Kano State Government House, an area that has been barricaded for caution.”
“The truth of the incident emerged when medical professionals at the government house clinic disclosed the true nature of Mr Naziru’s injuries.
Bature assured that the safety of journalists attached to the government house was guaranteed.
He, however, advised journalists to ensure that sources are credible in their reportage.
“However, the government would like to emphatically say that journalists are not under threat in the Kano government house. It is however worthy of note to caution journalists to ensure credible sources while reporting any development and avoid unnecessary sensational angles that can mislead the public,” he added.
“We hereby dispel any rumour that had sparked outrage and call for increased safety measures for journalists covering sensitive events. We also need to underscore the importance of accurate reporting and thorough investigation in mitigating misinformation and maintaining public trust.
Bature cautioned journalists to always be careful and vigilant in the course of duty.
“Let me emphasise the need for journalists to remain vigilant while carrying out their duties, especially in environments where construction activities pose potential hazards.”
He pledged the government’s poise to constantly review and enhance existing safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident, we urge the public to refrain from spreading unsubstantiated claims and to rely on verified information from credible sources,” the statement added.
