Plateau journalists disappointed as new GOC/OPSH commander takes over, limits coverage

The handover of command on Thursday from Abdulsalam Abubakar, a Major General and the outgoing General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3 Division and Commander of Operations Safe Haven (OPSH), to Eyitayo Oyinlola his successor, who is also a Major General was marked by notable disappointment among journalists on the Plateau.

Many journalists, particularly those from the print and online sectors, expressed frustration over being excluded from the event, as only a few electronic media representatives were invited.

Abdulsalam Abubakar, a Major General who was well-regarded for his cordial relationship with journalists during his tenure, handed over the reins in a ceremony that was widely anticipated by both military personnel and the press.

However, the exclusion of several media outlets from the event raised eyebrows. Journalists who had been keen to cover the handover ceremony voiced their displeasure, noting that they were left out despite their critical role in documenting military and security operations.

The media handlers of OPSH and 3 Division have come under scrutiny for their lack of inclusivity in handling the invitation process. Several journalists noted that such oversight left many disappointed, as they were unable to report on a key transition within the Nigerian Army. Complaints from the media were directed particularly at the spokespersons for both OPSH and 3 Division, who they believe did not adequately manage communication with the press leading up to the event.

In response to these concerns, several reporters pointed out that Abubakar had been one of the most accessible and media-friendly commanders in recent times. His open-door policy allowed for easier interactions between the military and the press, fostering a sense of collaboration and transparency.

However, despite this positive legacy, the handover ceremony did not reflect the same openness that Abubakar had championed throughout his time in office.

While the military’s relationship with the press has generally been cooperative, this incident has sparked questions about the priorities of the new leadership.

Media practitioners have called for better engagement and more transparent communication, especially when it comes to important events such as leadership transitions within the armed forces.

Both Samson Zakhom, a Major, and Aliyu Danja, a Lt. Colonel, who are the spokespersons for the 3 Division and OPSH respectively, did not answer their calls when BusinessDay reached out to them separately to inquire about the reason for the limitation of media coverage.

As Abubakar hands over the mantle to his successor, it remains to be seen how the new GOC will manage the relationship with the media. Journalists are hopeful that the new commander will prioritize inclusivity and open communication, ensuring that the military and the press continue to work together for the benefit of the public.