In Defense of Integrity: A Rejoinder to Jafar Jafar’s unfounded Allegations Against Senator Barau I. Jibrin
By Muazu A. Ishaq
In the realm of professional and ethically guided journalism, especially within a vibrant democracy like Nigeria, the responsibility to present facts with integrity and accountability is paramount. It is, therefore, disheartening to witness the recent unfounded and baseless allegations made by Jafar Jafar, publisher of the online newspaper Daily Nigerian, against the personality of distinguished Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin. These claims not only lack substantiation but also emerge from a place of personal vendetta and political desperation.
Contextualization of the Allegations
In their politically motivated Sunday weekly Hausa program “Fashin Baki” together with his accomplices, Jafar Jafar, who finds himself in a self-imposed exile in London following his controversial involvement in the infamous “Dollar Video” scandal involving Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State, appears to have redirected his ire towards Distinguished Senator Barau Jibrin amidst a backdrop of increasing political tension in the state. Jafar’s accusations, which suggest that Senator Barau is more involved in inciting conflict and chaos in Kano than the national chairman of the APC and former Governor of Kano state Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, are not only baseless and laughable but also a manifestation of his ongoing attempts to undermine individuals who pose a threat to his political benefactors in favor of his political sponsors.
One of the fundamental tenets of credible, professional and ethical journalism is the presentation of verifiable facts and balancing. In his recent accusations, Jafar has failed to provide any tangible evidence to support his claims against Senator Barau. Instead, he resorts to character attacks that are unfounded and serve no purpose other than to tarnish the reputation of a dedicated public servant. It is imperative to recognize that without evidence, such allegations are nothing more than libelous fabrications aimed at destabilizing the political landscape and maligning the character of honorable citizens.
Political Motivations Behind the Allegations
It is no secret that Jafar has a history of been used by desperate politicians to damage the reputation of their political rivals. He has been known to align with desperate political actors who seeks his news platforms for character assassination. This pattern of behavior raises serious questions about his motivations and the integrity of his reporting. It has become evident that Jafar’s comments are not born from a desire to uphold truth or journalistic values, but rather from a concerted effort to distort the image of Senator Barau I. Jibrin, who has garnered increasing political popularity and support among the citizens of Kano State and who is increasingly becoming a serious threat to Jafar’s paymasters political ambition.
Senator Barau I. Jibrin’s Track Record
Senator Barau has over the years built a commendable political reputation characterized by transparency, dedication, legislative and administrative expertise as well as commitment to the welfare of his constituents. His leadership role in the Senate coupled with his track record of advocating for peace, progress and development of Kano State and the north in general (which even Jafar has some few months back while praising Barau’s effort in the establishment of Northwest Development Commission attest to that) stands in stark contrast to Jafar’s erroneous and mischievous depiction. It is vital to recognize that Senator Barau has consistently promoted unity, development, and constructive dialogue, working diligently to address the needs and aspirations of the people he serves.
Therefore, it is expected that Jafar would support his sponsored allegations with credible evidence to justify his claim. Until then his accusations remain nothing but a figment of his imagination, driven by his desperate desire to please his paymasters and damage Senator Barau’s reputation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the allegations levied by Jafar Jafar are not only unfounded, baseless and laughable but also indicative of the growing trend of using media assassination by politically motivated and sponsored journalist as a tool for political manipulation and defamation. As we navigate these turbulent political waters, it becomes crucial for citizens and stakeholders to engage with credible, evidence-based narratives rather than sensationalized claims aimed at generating chaos and conflict.
Senator Barau I. Jibrin remains committed to serving the people of Kano State with integrity and honor. We urge the public and media organizations to exercise discretion in their evaluations and to hold individuals like Jafar accountable for the integrity of their reporting. Unsubstantiated claims serve only to erode trust in the media and distract citizens from the pressing issues that need to be addressed within our communities.
Muazu A. Ishaq is the Executive Director,
Partnership for Good Governance and Social Justice (PAGGAS). He can be reached via: [email protected]
