A group of Plateau State publishers has been spreading false allegations against the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap, claiming that she denied them access to cover the groundbreaking ceremony of the Jos Ultra-Modern Abattoir in Heipang, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
To set the record straight, the Commissioner, who has maintained a cordial and friendly relationship with journalists in the state, facilitated the invitation of media practitioners through the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, to cover the event.
All journalists assembled at the Old Government House at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, where two vehicles were provided for transportation to the venue.
When officials discovered that the vehicles could not accommodate all the journalists, electronic media personnel were given priority to board first, while some others made alternative arrangements to the venue. It is important to note that the Commissioner was not present at the point of departure and had no role in determining who boarded the vehicles.
Officials at the venue assured those who could not be accommodated that they would be provided with reports of the event and that adequate arrangements would be made for them.
This understanding was accepted by all concerned, including the leader of the publishers, Mr. Yakubu Ajala, as well as Philip Jatau and Daniel Kura.
However, to the surprise of many journalists, some publishers later circulated reports accusing the Commissioner of deliberately excluding them from the event. These allegations are unfounded and do not reflect the true situation.
Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap, mni, has consistently maintained a good working relationship with journalists and media stakeholders across Plateau State. Any attempt to tarnish her reputation through misinformation, falsehood, or blackmail will not stand.
Plateau journalists remain resolute in their support for the Honourable Commissioner and her commitment to fostering a productive relationship between government and the media.
