Yobe Journalist cries out, says his life in danger
From Habibu Idris Gimba, Damaturu
A Yobe-based Journalist, Kasim Isa Muhammad, who’s working with Neptune Prime Newspaper, said his life is in danger after his recent article on the member House of Representative representing Nangere/Potiskum, Hon. Fatima Talba, published on Daily Chronicles Online platform.
The published article with the caption “Where is Hon. Fatima Talba?” draw the attention of the lawmaker, supporters and the members of her constituency which she took it personal.
The article responded to concerns from many constituents who felt disconnected from their representative and uncertain about the progress of projects and engagements promised during the last election.
The journalist revealed that shortly after the publication of the article, his parents began receiving calls and visits from individuals whom they believed to be linked to Hon Fatima Talba.
“The unfolding events have created an atmosphere of fear within my family and have underscored the increasing challenges journalists and citizens face when attempting to demand transparency from public office holders.
“The article responded to concerns from many constituents who felt disconnected from their representative and uncertain about the progress of projects and engagements promised during the last election.
“My intention was simply to give voice to those concerns in a constructive and democratic manner, drawing attention to matters that are clearly in the public interest.
“The article itself did not contain inflammatory language, personal attacks, or unverified allegations. It was essentially a call for dialogue, transparency, and responsiveness, qualities that any functioning democracy expects of its elected officials. I anticipated a clarification or a factual correction or perhaps a simple acknowledgement from her office. I did not expect the irresponsible reaction that followed and which has now placed undue emotional pressure on my family.
“My parents told me, shortly after the publication of the article, they began receiving calls and visits from individuals whom they believed to be linked to the Honourable Member.
“These individuals reportedly expressed displeasure over the content of the piece. My parents informed me that Hon. Fatima Talba was extremely upset and that she allegedly made threatening remarks suggesting she would deal with me in whatever manner she considered appropriate. Hearing this from my parents was both painful and disturbing since they have no connection whatsoever to my professional work.
“For two elderly people who have lived quiet and peaceful lives and who have never been involved in political matters, these alleged threats came as a frightening experience. They were confused about why they were being dragged into an issue that concerned my work alone. No parent should be placed in a position where they feel fear simply because their child has chosen to engage in responsible journalism or has raised questions that are fully within the bounds of democratic rights. Their anxiety has been overwhelming and their sense of security has been shaken” the journalist revealed.
He added that as a journalist, he is fully aware that his work may sometimes provoke disagreement or criticism. Scrutiny is part of the job and public officials have every right to respond to any publication in ways that are lawful, transparent, and civil.
“What cannot be tolerated is the intimidation or harassment of family members who have no involvement in the matter being discussed.
“Such behaviour, if confirmed, would suggest an unacceptable misuse of influence and would undermine the principles of free expression that support a democratic society.
“It is particularly baffling that instead of addressing the substance of the concerns raised in the article, the alleged reaction appears to have been directed at silencing me through fear” He said.
He however called on the civil society organizations, press freedom advocates, human rights groups, and relevant government agencies to pay attention to what has occurred.
“Any form of intimidation directed at journalists or their families threatens not just individuals but the integrity of public institutions. A society where journalists fear asking questions is a society at risk of silencing truth and discouraging civic participation. The safety of my parents and the preservation of my constitutional rights must be taken seriously” He added.
All efforts to get the reaction of the lawmaker proved abortive as she neither pick up our calls nor response to our text message as time of filing this report.
