Prof. Abdullahi Usman, Chairman National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), says he is mot behind the arrest of any journalist by security agencies.

In a statement by his Technical Assistant on Media, Ahmad Muazu, the NAHCON chairman said he did not order or request the arrest of any journalist or media practitioner.

The chairman described as fictitious the report that he allegedly ordered the arrest of a journalist, noting that it was ”reckless, defamatory, and entirely fabricated”.

”The article is a work of fiction designed to malign the character of the Chairman and undermine the integrity of the Commission. We categorically and unequivocally deny all allegations contained within it.

”We challenge News Point Nigeria to provide any credible evidence of their Editor’s alleged detention and the Chairman’s involvement.

”The Chairman has demonstrated commitment to due process and transparency in governance. Contrary to allegations of defiance, records show the Chairman has engaged with appropriate government channels regarding any official inquiries.

”The Commission respects the work of all Regulatory and Anti-Corruption Agencies and will continue to cooperate with them through proper channels.”

On the allegation made of disrespect to Vice President Kashim Shettima, he said his office maintains a professional, respectful relationship with the Office of the Vice President and all government institutions.

”NAHCON has maintained open channels with all Media Organisations and has always welcomed fair and responsible journalism.

”However, deliberate attempts to malign the image of the Commission or its leadership under the guise of press freedom will not be condoned and we will pursue resolution through media industry bodies and other appropriate administrative channels.”

He urged Nigerians to disregard the said publication and similar reports that appear intended to sow distrust and undermine the integrity of the commission or the ongoing reforms in Hajj administration.

”This latest article is not an isolated incident, but part of a documented and sustained campaign to tarnish the image of this Commission through falsehoods and coordinated blackmail by the said newspaper.

”This obsessive pursuit clearly violates the fundamental journalistic principles of accuracy, fairness, and impartiality and fails to meet the most fundamental standards of ethical journalism as outlined in both the Nigerian Press Council Code of Ethics and international journalism standards.

”Our focus remains on serving Nigeria pilgrims and we shall accord all media outlets their ethically deserved cooperation at all times.”(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz