By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab, Publisher, National Watch
My attention has been drawn to a long, winding, and self-congratulatory statement credited to Hon. Alhaji Nasiru Bala Salisu (Katukan Lakwaja) reacting to my report titled “No Political Value, No Award: Lokoja Residents Back Adamu’s Snub of Disloyal Ex–Chairman.”
Ordinarily, I would have ignored the rambling epistle filled with contradictions and historical diversions, but for the sake of truth, public record, and respect for readers who value facts over emotional theatrics, it has become necessary to set the records straight.
1. The Article Was Factual — Not Fiction
The National Watch report was a balanced and verifiable account of the views expressed by Lokoja residents and APC stakeholders regarding the Council’s one-year anniversary and the award list.
Nowhere did the story insult, fabricate, or attack Hon. Nasiru Bala personally. The report merely captured the pulse of the people — a responsibility every journalist owes the public.
The Honourable’s attempt to paint the report as “blackmail” and “character assassination” is not only false but a desperate attempt to silence free speech. Public service is not a private affair — it invites scrutiny, and those who once held public office must be ready to answer to the people, not lash out when their image is no longer worshipped.
2. Resorting to Insults Cannot Erase the Truth
It is disappointing that rather than address the substance of the report, Hon. Nasiru Bala resorted to cheap insults, branding me a “serial blackmailer” and “quack journalist.”
Let it be clear: no amount of name-calling will rewrite facts or intimidate the truth.
I have never been a blackmailer, and my record as a journalist speaks louder than his emotional outburst. Those who have skeletons in their cupboards often scream the loudest when reminded of public perception.
If he believes the story was false, the law provides a clear path — seek redress through facts, not foul language.
3. History Does Not Erase Present Reality
Yes, Hon. Nasiru Bala may have served Lokoja decades ago, but yesterday’s glory cannot cover today’s irrelevance.
Leadership is not a lifetime title — it is earned daily through relevance, loyalty, and continued service. The political structure has evolved, and those who have lost connection with their people must accept that the political tide has moved on.
The simple truth is that Lokoja residents have the right to applaud or criticize. Their position — that loyalty and current value to the APC should determine recognition — is legitimate and democratic.
Dismissing their voices as “bastards” or “non-indigenes” (as he wrote) is not only reckless but an insult to the very people he once governed.
4. The “Mix-Up” Excuse Is a Poor Cover
After his lengthy attack, the Honourable subtly admitted there was “a mix-up” in the award process and that the current chairman “did not deliberately exclude him.”
If that is true, then what was the basis for his public outburst?
A wise elder would have reached out privately for clarification, not attempt to score sympathy points by attacking journalists and dragging innocent people into his drama.
5. Integrity Is Earned, Not Declared
Public reputation is not built by long speeches about humility and family history; it is earned through one’s consistent conduct.
Those who constantly have to remind the world of their “name, title, and legacy” only expose insecurity, not greatness. True leaders don’t shout their integrity — the people testify to it.
6. Journalism Is Not Blackmail
Let it be stated once again: National Watch operates under the principles of truth, fairness, and accountability.
We do not practice brown-envelope journalism, neither do we peddle falsehoods. Every publication goes through verification, balance, and editorial review before release.
If Hon. Nasiru Bala wants to challenge a report, he must do so with facts — not emotions, not insults, and certainly not religious lectures meant to distract from the issue at hand.
7. Final Word
Hon. Nasiru Bala should understand that public office is not inheritance and respect is not demanded through intimidation. The people of Lokoja have moved on, and their right to express opinions will not be silenced by anyone’s ego or nostalgia.
My job as a journalist is to report the truth and amplify the voices of the people. That, I will continue to do fearlessly and responsibly — without apology to anyone who feels entitled to perpetual praise.
Signed:
Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Publisher / Editor-in-Chief
National Watch Newspaper
Lokoja, Kogi State
