21/03/2025
Prominent Islamic Scholar Calls for Media Collaboration in Promoting Peace and Unity in Plateau State
Jos, Plateau State – March 20, 2025
In a significant gathering aimed at fostering unity and peace, Sheikh Imam Abubakar Bala Gana, a prominent Islamic scholar and Director of Education for the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) in Plateau State, hosted a media parley at his residence on Thursday, March 20, 2025. The event, which coincided with the 20th day of Ramadan, brought together journalists from within and outside Plateau State, including representatives from Fix TV Nigeria, to discuss the role of the media in promoting social cohesion, peace, and prosperity in Plateau State.
Sheikh Imam Gana, a respected voice in the Islamic community, emphasized the historical role of journalism in shaping societies and promoting positive social behavior. He urged journalists to work closely with religious and community leaders to amplify messages of unity and peaceful coexistence. “The media has always been a powerful tool for social change,” he said. “From the earliest days of journalism, it has played a critical role in educating the public, dispelling rumors, and fostering understanding among diverse groups. Today, we need this more than ever.”
The scholar called on journalists to prioritize truth and accuracy in their reporting, stressing that the media must avoid sensationalism and false narratives that could exacerbate tensions. “Only professional journalists understand the importance of filtering information and reporting the truth,” he said. “We must reject fake news and distorted statements that divide us. Instead, let us use the media to promote unity, prosperity, and mutual respect.”
Sheikh Imam Gana’s message aligns closely with Fix TV Nigeria’s editorial policies, which emphasize balanced, accurate, and responsible reporting. As a media organization committed to promoting peace, unity, and social development, Fix TV Nigeria has consistently championed stories that foster social harmony and highlight the efforts of community leaders in building a better society. The scholar’s call for collaboration between the media and religious leaders resonates deeply with Fix TV Nigeria’s mission to serve as a bridge between diverse groups and to promote understanding through ethical journalism.
The event also served as a platform to commend the efforts of Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, in promoting peace and strengthening coexistence among the diverse ethnic and religious groups in the state. Sheikh Imam Gana urged both Christians and Muslims observing Lent and Ramadan, respectively, to include the governor and the state in their prayers. “As Muslims enter the final ten days of Ramadan, a period of deep reflection and prayer, let us remember Plateau State and its leaders in our supplications,” he said.
The Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Plateau State, Ayuku Pwaspo, praised Sheikh Imam Gana for his consistent support for the media and his contributions to peacebuilding in the state. “Sheikh Imam Gana has always been a pillar of support for the NUJ and a champion of peace in Plateau State,” she said. “His efforts to bring journalists and religious leaders together are commendable and should serve as a model for others.”
Former Commissioner for Information, Dan Manjang, also spoke at the event, calling on the state government to organize more interactive sessions with journalists and other stakeholders. “Such engagements are crucial for fostering transparency, openness, and trust between the government and the people,” he said.
The gathering underscored the critical role of the media in shaping public discourse and promoting social harmony. As Plateau State continues to navigate its complex social and religious landscape, the collaboration between religious leaders, journalists, and the government will be essential in building a more united and prosperous society.
Reported by Habeeb Mu'az, Fix TV Nigeria
March 20, 2025
