The Plateau State Ministry of Information and Communication and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, have refuted allegations that some journalists and media publishers were deliberately prevented from covering the recent flag-off ceremony of the state’s ultra-modern abattoir project in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The clarification follows a publication circulated on social media claiming that the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, mni, instructed an aide to stop certain journalists from participating in the coverage of the event held at Pwomol in Heipang District.
In a statement signed by the Special Assistant in the Office of the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Stanley Smiles, the Ministry described the allegation as false, misleading, and without any factual basis.
According to the statement, the groundbreaking ceremony was a public government event, and media participation was coordinated through the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, the umbrella body representing media organizations in the state.
The Ministry emphasized that neither the Commissioner nor any official of the Ministry issued directives to exclude or restrict any journalist or media organization from covering the programme.
It further noted that journalists from various media platforms attended and reported on the event, underscoring the administration’s commitment to transparency, openness, and equal access to information.
The statement added that Commissioner Joyce Ramnap remains dedicated to promoting government activities and ensuring that citizens receive accurate and timely information about the policies, programmes, and projects of Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration.
“It is therefore inaccurate to suggest that the Commissioner would deliberately block media coverage of a major government project, as such actions are inconsistent with her responsibilities and established record,” the Ministry stated, urging the public to disregard the publication and rely on verified information from official sources.
In a separate statement, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, also distanced itself from the publication, clarifying that the opinions expressed did not reflect the official position of the Council but were those of the individuals involved.
The statement, jointly signed by NUJ Chairman Ayuku Pwaspo, ANIPR, and Secretary Mary Domtur, acknowledged that while some members were unable to board the vehicles provided for transportation to the venue, they successfully attended the event by making alternative arrangements through personal vehicles and public transportation.
The Council encouraged all concerned parties to adopt dialogue and existing dispute-resolution mechanisms instead of resorting to public narratives capable of creating unnecessary tension within the media industry.
It also observed that administrative decisions relating to media coordination at government functions should not be misconstrued without a proper understanding of established protocols and procedures.
The NUJ commended the Plateau State Ministry of Information and Communication under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap for maintaining productive engagement with media stakeholders and facilitating effective dissemination of government information.
As part of its resolution, the Council passed a vote of confidence on the Commissioner, applauding her commitment to strengthening communication channels between the government and the media.
The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting professionalism in journalism, and fostering mutual respect among journalists, media owners, government institutions, and the public in the overall interest of Plateau State.
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