by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
PLATEAU STATE: Major-General Folusho Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of OPSH, at Headquarters 3 Division, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, has described the media as a “critical bridge” between security agencies and the public.
While commending the media for “responsible journalism” characterized by accuracy, fairness, and sensitivity, which prevents the escalation of tensions, the GOC stressed that, “Your stories and information shape public perception and understanding.”
He was speaking during a courtesy visit on him by Plateau’s (NUJ) Chapel’s executive members at the Headquarters 3 Division, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, in Jos.
The GOC urged caution against what he termed as “sensational headlines” and “unverified information” that could incite panic or deepen divisions within the diverse communities of Plateau State.
“We earnestly seek your partnership in promoting narratives that unite, rather than divide,” he stated, while warning against the spread of fake news and inflammatory reports.
General Oyinlola called upon the media to counteract such damaging narratives with factual and balanced reporting, emphasizing that, “No society can thrive without peace, and accurate information is its foundation.”
He assured the Chapel that Operation SAFE HAVEN remained committed to its mandate and maintained an open-door policy for prompt incident verification. “Despite mischievous attempts to undermine our efforts, we remain unwavering in our commitment to secure the lives and property of all citizens,” he declared.
Major-General Oyinlola expressed his appreciation for the Chapel’s visit, emphasizing the vital media-military relationship.
Speaking earlier, Chairman of the Correspondents Chapel Plateau State, Polycarp Auta, assured of the Chapel’s unwavering support for 3 Division Nigerian Army and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) in their mission to ensure the safety and security of lives and property across Plateau State and beyond.
Mr. Polycarp Auta further stated that the visit was aimed to commend the Nigerian Army’s dedication to fostering lasting peace in the state and to reaffirm the Chapel’s continuous support for 3 Division and OPSH.
“No society can thrive without safety and security,” Mr. Auta emphasized, highlighting the crucial role of a secure environment in the economic development of Plateau State.
He also addressed the issue of some journalists misrepresenting the efforts of security agencies, noting the challenges posed by fake news and sensationalized reporting exacerbated by the rise of new media.
He assured the GOC that the Chapel would prioritize sensitizing journalists across the state on the importance of patriotism and objective reporting, particularly within a conflict-sensitive environment.