DSS Partners with Nasarawa Journalists to Combat Fake News

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Department of State Services (DSS) announced yesterday that it would collaborate with the Nasarawa State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to combat the spread of fake news and to support efforts aimed at reducing insecurity in the state.

Hassan Abdullahi, the DSS director for Nasarawa State, made the statement in Lafia while hosting NUJ leaders, including Chairman Salihu Mohamed‑Alkali, during a familiarisation visit.

Abdullahi highlighted the parallel roles of journalists and DSS officers, noting that journalists expose societal problems to the public, whereas the DSS reports those issues to authorities in order to address them and improve the system for everyone.

He stressed that accurate information and responsible reporting are essential tools for maintaining peace and public order, which are core responsibilities of the DSS.

Abdullahi warned that misinformation and unverified reports circulating on social media can inflame tensions and undermine security operations.

He urged NUJ leaders to ensure that none of their members publishes unverified information, in line with professional ethics.

“The DSS recognises the media as a strategic partner in national security and we want to work closely with journalists to ensure that information reaching the public is verified, factual, and does not compromise ongoing security efforts,” he said.

He also assured journalists that DSS officers would not interfere with their professional duties in the field.

Earlier, NUJ Chairman Mohammed‑Alkali said the visit aimed to strengthen the existing relationship and to guarantee that journalists can carry out their work without fear of intimidation.

He noted that since he took office in 2020, journalists in the state have never experienced friction with DSS officers.

Mohammed‑Alkali added that the union is committed to upholding professional ethics and will educate members against sensational or false reporting.

He stated that journalists in the state are prepared to collaborate with security agencies to promote stability and counter disinformation.

“The union stands for responsible journalism. We will continue to educate our members on the need to verify facts before publication and to avoid content that can incite panic or violence,” Mohamed‑Alkali maintained.