By Abiola Olawale
The Kano State Government has debunked viral reports that a journalist, a correspondent of Abubakar Rimi Television, Naziru Idris Ya’u, was hit by a stray bullet during a media outing at the Government House in Kano.
This as the state government clarified that the journalist only sustained injuries from the metal debris emanating from an ongoing construction at the Government House.
In the early hours of Saturday, May 4, 2024, reports emerged that Idris Ya’u was hit by a stray bullet and was immediately rushed to the Government House clinic for treatment.
However, the Kano State government has denied the reports, describing them as false.
The Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, who described the reported incident as one-sided, claimed in a press statement that journalists are not under threat in the government house.
The state government also assured the safety of media practitioners in the state, claiming they are highly protected.
Mr Tofa said: “The attention of the Kano State government has been drawn to a one-sided media report on social media, revealing that a journalist, with the state-owned 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.
“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 sensation that can mislead the public.”
Tofa noted that, “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.”
Tofa added that the journalist, Mr Naziru, expressed gratitude for the prompt medical attention he received and thanked well-wishers for their concern during his recovery.
“Let me emphasise the need for journalists to remain vigilant while carrying out their duties, especially in environments where construction activities pose potential hazards,” Tofa said.
“We thereby dispel any rumours 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.”
