By Danjuma Lamido
It is deeply regrettable that Sahara Reporters, a platform once known for investigative journalism, has chosen to sacrifice truth and professionalism on the altar of sensationalism.
In its recent publication, the outlet alleged that police officers, led by the Investigating Police Officer (IPO) in charge of Omoyele Sowore’s case, identified as CSP Ilyasu Barau, OC Anti-Vice, under DC-CID, FCT Command, “pounced” on Sowore, “manhandled him”, and “forced him into a waiting police van”.
This publication is not only false but malicious and deliberately intended to malign the reputation of a dedicated, law-abiding, and thoroughly professional police officer. From the available records and eyewitness accounts, CSP Ilyasu Barau is a perfect, gentle officer, courteous, disciplined, and humane in the discharge of his duties.
It is unthinkable that such a refined senior officer would “manhandle” or “pound” any suspect, not to mention someone as high-profile as Mr Omoyele Sowore.
Let it be clear that CSP Ilyasu Barau did not wake up one morning and decide to “arrest” or “drag” Sowore. As the Investigating Police Officer (IPO), he was simply carrying out lawful instructions from his superiors, following due process and a valid remand order issued by a Magistrate’s Court.
Therefore, Sahara Reporters’ decision to publish his picture on X (formerly Twitter) is not only unethical but dangerous; it exposes a serving officer to unwarranted threats, harassment, and potential harm.
Contrary to the false narrative pushed by Sahara Reporters, CSP Ilyasu Barau never at any point assaulted Mr Sowore. Those present can attest that even when Sowore resisted lawful attempts by police personnel to escort him to the correctional facility, CSP Barau maintained utmost composure and professionalism.
There was no instance where he punched, dragged, or violently pushed the activist into a police van, as the report mischievously suggested.
It is important to state that the officers at the scene were acting strictly within the confines of the law and under the authority of a remand order duly issued by a competent court of jurisdiction. Their role was to ensure Sowore’s safe transfer to Kuje Correctional Centre, nothing more, nothing less.
Sahara Reporters must therefore desist from publishing stories that endanger the lives and reputations of security personnel who are merely performing their constitutional duties. Irresponsible journalism of this nature not only misinforms the public but also undermines law enforcement and endangers officers and their families.
CSP Ilyasu Barau and his team are law-abiding officers who respect the rule of law and operate strictly within the boundaries of court rulings. They deserve commendation for their professionalism, not condemnation based on falsehoods.
It is high time Sahara Reporters returned to the ethics of balanced reporting rather than playing politics with national security and the lives of innocent officers. Truth, not sensationalism, should be the foundation of every credible news platform.
Danjuma Lamido writes from Yola, Adamawa. email: danjumalamido2011@gmail.com
