Africa
RE: An Open letter to Kaduna State Governor, Sen. Uba Sani On A Vote of No Confidence Against the Resentful Attitudes of His Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Musa -By Jabir T. Usman
This malicious campaign against a reputable professional is unpatriotic. The petition is nothing but a hatchet job by disgruntled elements seeking to undermine Musa’s credibility. His track record speaks for itself: decades of journalism excellence, strategic communication roles in APC campaigns, and a reputation for fairness . Governor Uba Sani, a media-friendly leader, would not retain Musa if he were as toxic as alleged.
The petition purportedly written by journalists against Malam Ibraheem Musa, Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Uba Sani, is a baseless, malicious, and envy-driven petition designed to tarnish the reputation of a seasoned journalist with over 30 years of exemplary service. The allegations are not only unfounded but also reek of a coordinated smear campaign by individuals threatened by Musa’s commitment to professionalism and integrity. Below is a point-by-point rebuttal of these spurious claims.
1. Depriving Journalists of Honorarium:
The claim that Malam Ibraheem Musa withholds honoraria meant for journalists is ludicrous and defies logic. Musa, a veteran journalist and former editor of Daily Trust and Blueprint, has built a career on ethical journalism and fairness . His integrity is unimpeachable, and the idea that he would “descend low to immortality” by shortchanging honoraria is absurd. If any delays occur, they are likely bureaucratic and not orchestrated by the CPS. Moreover, Musa’s role is advisory, not operational, honoraria disbursements are handled by respective ministries, not the CPS’s office.
2. Confrontation at Kaduna Pilgrims Welfare Agency:
The allegation that Musa engaged in a physical altercation with a journalist at the office of Yunusa Muhammad Makarfi is a blatant falsehood. Musa, a man in his late 50s with a distinguished career, would never resort to such unprofessional conduct . This claim is a fabrication meant to paint him as violent, which contradicts his known demeanor as a calm, principled professional. If any disagreement occurred, it was likely a verbal exchange—common in media circles—but certainly not a brawl. The story reeks of exaggeration and malice.
3. Withholding Government Information
The assertion that Musa deprives journalists of information is laughable. As a journalist who has worked with New Nigerian Newspapers, Daily Trust, and Blueprint, Musa understands the importance of the Freedom of Information Act (FOI) and the media’s role as the Fourth Estate of the Realm. The claim that he blocked ministerial briefings at the NUJ secretariat is misleading. If briefings were moved to the Government House, it was likely for logistical or security reasons, not malice. Additionally, Musa has facilitated access for accredited journalists, ensuring only verified professionals—not quacks—cover state events.
4. Resentment Towards Journalists
The claim that Musa harbors resentment against local journalists is unfounded. His engagement with social media bloggers and online journalists— is second to none. Because i am a living witness to his generous acts extended to online media bloggers, which i am also a beneficiary his kind consideration; engaging me in so many assignments. If he prioritizes national outlets, it is because they have wider reach, not out of disdain for local media. The NUJ’s role is to accredit journalists, and Musa’s insistence on professionalism should not be misconstrued as bias.
5. Hijacking Major Assignments
The accusation that Musa “hijacked” Seyi Tinubu’s visit and the Northern Governors’ Forum meeting is another fabrication. As CPS, Musa’s duty includes coordinating media coverage for high-profile events. If access was restricted, it was likely due to space constraints or security protocols—not personal vendettas. The claim that he submitted a “preferred list” of journalists is standard practice to ensure order, not favoritism.
On a final note: This malicious campaign against a reputable professional is unpatriotic. The petition is nothing but a hatchet job by disgruntled elements seeking to undermine Musa’s credibility. His track record speaks for itself: decades of journalism excellence, strategic communication roles in APC campaigns, and a reputation for fairness . Governor Uba Sani, a media-friendly leader, would not retain Musa if he were as toxic as alleged.
We urge the public to disregard this petition as the work of mischief-makers. Malam Ibraheem Musa remains a pillar of ethical journalism and a vital asset to Kaduna State.
Jabir T Usman
