Abuja: Prof. Abdullahi Usman, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), has clarified that he is not responsible for the arrest of any journalists by security agencies.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the statement was made by Ahmad Muazu, the NAHCON chairman’s Technical Assistant on Media, asserting that Prof. Usman did not order or request the arrest of any media personnel. The chairman described the allegations as fictitious, reckless, defamatory, and entirely fabricated, aimed at maligning his character and undermining the integrity of the Commission.

The statement challenged the publication, News Point Nigeria, to provide credible evidence of their editor’s alleged detention and the chairman’s involvement. The chairman emphasized his commitment to due process and transparency in governance, highlighting that he has engaged with appropriate government channels regarding official inquiries.

Prof. Usman reiterated that the Commission respects all Regulatory and Anti-Corruption Agencies and will continue to cooperate with them through proper channels. Addressing allegations of disrespect towards Vice President Kashim Shettima, he affirmed maintaining a professional and respectful relationship with the Office of the Vice President and all government institutions.

The statement also emphasized NAHCON’s open channels with media organizations and its commitment to fair and responsible journalism. However, deliberate attempts to malign the Commission’s image under the guise of press freedom will not be condoned, and resolutions will be pursued through media industry bodies and other appropriate administrative channels.

He urged Nigerians to disregard the publication and similar reports intended to sow distrust and undermine the integrity of the Commission or ongoing reforms in Hajj administration. The statement labeled the article as part of a sustained campaign to tarnish the Commission’s image through falsehoods and coordinated blackmail by the said newspaper.

Prof. Usman emphasized the Commission’s focus on serving Nigerian pilgrims and assured that all media outlets would receive ethically deserved cooperation at all times.