Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State has strongly refuted claims that his convoy was attacked by bandits during a recent project inspection tour in the Mashegu Local Government Area. The incident, which was reported by some sources, allegedly took place on Tuesday as the governor and his team were returning from a visit to Egede
community. According to these reports, the convoy accidentally entered a bandit hideout, where it came under fire. The governor’s security team was said to have quickly retaliated, neutralizing several of the attackers, although some vehicles in the convoy were damaged. Despite the reports, no casualties were reported among the governor’s team.
In response to these allegations, Bago’s Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, issued a statement denying the attack. Ibrahim called the reports “false, baseless, and unfounded,” emphasizing that the governor’s ongoing tour of projects across the Niger North Senatorial District had been peaceful and without any security threats. The statement clarified that the governor and his team had been receiving warm receptions from community members in all the areas they had visited.
Ibrahim also criticized the media for what he described as unethical journalism, accusing some reporters of spreading misleading and unverified information. He urged the chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Niger State to ensure that only trained and professional journalists are allowed to practice. He stressed the importance of adhering to professional standards, especially given the crucial role the media plays in informing the public.
The governor’s office expressed frustration at the spread of false narratives, which they argued could cause unnecessary fear and confusion. The statement highlighted the governor’s commitment to the ongoing projects in the state and reiterated that his team would continue their work undeterred. It also called for a more responsible approach to news reporting, emphasizing the need for accuracy and integrity in journalism.
While the alleged attack has been debunked by the governor’s office, it has raised concerns about the security situation in the region. Niger State, like many parts of northern Nigeria, has been grappling with the activities of armed bandits, making the security of government officials and citizens a critical issue. However, the governor’s team remains confident that their work will continue without further disruption.
