When Falsehood Becomes a Stock in Trade

From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu

Journalism is undeniably a noble profession, committed to informing and educating the public objectively and promoting accountability in governance for the common good.

However, it becomes dangerous when misused to spread deliberate falsehoods, disregarding the ethical principles that underpin the profession.

In a recent press statement signed and released by Mamman Mohammed, Director-General of Press and Media Affairs to Governor Mai Mala Buni, the Yobe State government responded to an article by Sahara Reporters.

The publication alleged that the state recorded zero expenditure on basic education while spending N3.8 billion on sitting allowances and constructing Presidential chalets.

The statement criticized the Sahara Reporters article, claiming it included a document with “tiny and almost unreadable characters” intended to mislead readers.

For those who examined the document closely, it reflected expenditures on sitting allowances and construction projects but omitted any indication of zero spending on basic education, leaving readers unable to verify or assess the claim.

To clarify, the Yobe State government reported spending over N3 billion in the past three quarters on instructional materials, classroom and hostel renovations in over ten schools.

Additionally, more than N1.5 billion was paid for tuition and registration fees, and N3.5 billion was remitted to UBEC as counterpart funding, among other educational investments.

The statement argued that the notion of “zero expenditure on basic education” implies all schools would be closed, which contradicts the current situation in Yobe.

According to the state government, schools across Yobe have witnessed increased enrollment and ongoing improvements.

In closing, the Yobe State government urged readers to apply discernment when assessing such claims, emphasizing the importance of responsible journalism in fostering informed public discourse.