Police Probe Alleged Certificate Forgery in FCT NUJ Election
•Yahaya, Bauchi NAWOJ hail Alhassan’s emergence as national president
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Nigeria police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) command, yesterday said its involvement in the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), elections in Abuja was strictly limited to investigating the allegations of forgery received via a written petition.
The police also revealed that as part of the investigation, the command had since invited the individuals named in the petition for questioning to verify the allegations.
A statement by the command’s spokesperson, Josephine Adeh said: “The FCT Police Command wishes to address allegations circulating on social media suggesting that the Inspector General of Police is meddling in the NUJ FCT 2024 elections. These claims are false, and the command is issuing this clarification to set the record straight.
“On November 25, 2024, a formal petition was submitted to the FCT Commissioner of Police by three individuals: Mr. Emeka Nze, Mr. Victorson Agbenson, and Mr. Johnchuks Onuanyim.
“The petition accused Miss Grace Ike, Miss Edeh Sandra Ogechukwu, Mr. Yahaya Ndambabo, and Mr. Jide Oyekunle Adeyemi of forging Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) certificates purportedly issued by the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ), Abuja.
“This petition highlighted specific discrepancies in the certificates presented by the accused individuals,” the FCT command said.
Adeh noted that the action of the police was in line with their duty to uphold the rule of law, maintain order, and safeguard democratic processes.
The Nigerian police, she said, have no interest in or influence over the NUJ elections or their outcomes.
“Our responsibility is to ensure justice by thoroughly examining the claims based on the facts and evidence provided.
“We urge all parties involved to respect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and refrain from spreading baseless accusations that could erode public trust. In due time, the outcome of the investigation will be made known to enhance transparency,” Adeh further revealed.
She said that the police under the leadership of Kayode Egbetokun, remain a professional and impartial institution committed to its responsibilities.
Meanwhile, the Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, has congratulated Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, on his election as the national president of the NUJ.
The Nigerian Association of Women Journalist (NAWOJ), Bauchi State Chapter, has also greeted him on his victory.
Yahaya expressed joy over Alhassan’s victory at the just concluded 8th Triennial Delegates Conference in Owerri, Imo State, describing it as a remarkable achievement and a source of immense pride for the state and the entire journalism community.
According to a press release issued by the Director General, Press Affairs, Government House, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governor praised Alhassan’s journey and impressive rise in NUJ leadership.
“From your humble beginning at the chapel level to your stellar service at the state, zonal, and national levels, you have consistently demonstrated unmatched courage, integrity, and passion for the cause of journalism and the welfare of journalists.
“Your election as the national president of the NUJ is a reflection of the trust journalists across Nigeria have in your capacity to lead. Your commitment, integrity, and vision have made you a shining example of what it means to be a leader in the field of journalism,” the governor remarked.
NAWOJ also described his victory as a remarkable achievement and a source of immense pride for the north-east region.
According to a release by Hajiya Rashida Yusuf, Bauchi State Chairperson of NAWOJ: “Your election as the national president of the NUJ is a reflection of the trust journalists across Nigeria have in your capacity to lead. Your commitment, integrity, and vision have made you a shining example of what it means to be a leader in the field of journalism.”
