By Faith Chondol
A journalist Dangkat Geoffrey has alleged that he was threatened with violence during a meeting at the palace of the District Head of Mangu over reports on insecurity in rural communities.
The journalist said the meeting was held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at about 10:00 a.m., following his reports on attacks and other security challenges affecting residents in parts of Mangu District, Plateau State.
According to his account, the meeting was attended by representatives of the Mwaghavul Development Association, Mangu Branch; Mwaghavul Youth Movement; the Women Wing; and members of the Traditional Council of Mangu District.
The journalist alleged that the Chairman of the Mwaghavul Development Association, Mangu Branch, confronted him over his reports and made statements he interpreted as threats of violence and intimidation.
Among the statements he attributed to the chairman was: “Mangu District is not your land, I will call the youths to come and beat you here.”
The chairman allegedly also warned him, “If you ever again report anything that happens in Mangu District, you will see what will happen.”
He further alleged that the chairman questioned his interest in reporting incidents within the district and told him to return to his own community to report issues occurring there.
The journalist said he considered the alleged statements particularly serious because of the reference to mobilising youths to attack him and the warning of unspecified consequences should he continue reporting security incidents in Mangu.
What triggered the confrontation?
The alleged confrontation followed the circulation of a viral interview in which a woman spoke about insecurity affecting farmers and rural residents in parts of Mangu.
In the interview, the woman reportedly said farmlands around Aloghom, Farin Kasa and Jwak Mai Tumbi had been destroyed by suspected terrorists.
She also expressed concern that women could no longer safely travel to farms alone because of fears of attacks while carrying out agricultural activities.
The woman reportedly appealed to the District Head, Mishkaham, the Chairman of Mangu Local Government and the Plateau State Government to take action to address the security situation.
Following the circulation of the interview, she was reportedly summoned to the palace of the District Head.
The journalist said the development had raised concerns about the safety of residents who speak publicly about insecurity and other challenges confronting their communities.
‘Reporting insecurity is a public-interest duty’
The journalist maintained that reporting security challenges in Mangu does not amount to an attack on the district or its people.
He said journalists have a responsibility to bring issues affecting members of the public to wider attention, particularly when such issues involve alleged attacks, destruction of livelihoods, displacement and threats to civilian safety.
He argued that disagreements over media reports should be addressed through clarification, dialogue, correction or a right of reply rather than threats or intimidation.
The journalist also expressed concern about the alleged intimidation of women and other residents who speak publicly about insecurity, saying civilians should be able to raise concerns about their safety without fear of reprisals.
Call for investigation and protection
The journalist has called on relevant authorities, security agencies, traditional institutions, civil society organisations and press freedom bodies to take the alleged threats seriously and ensure that journalists and residents can report or speak about security challenges without intimidation.
He said he remains committed to responsible journalism and reporting issues affecting communities, particularly insecurity and the experiences of vulnerable residents.
The allegations contained in this report reflect the journalist’s account of the incident. The individuals and organisations mentioned have not, in the account provided, been quoted responding to the allegations. Their responses or clarification should be sought and reflected where available.
Post Comment