Katsina Hisbah Board Visits Katsina Times Media House

By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar, Katsina Times

On Thursday, January 22, 2025, the Katsina State Hisbah Board, led by its Deputy Commander, Dr. Ibrahim Iyal Gafai, paid a courtesy visit to Matasa Media Links. The company publishes the Katsina City News Magazine, Katsina Times, and the online newspaper Taskar Labarai.

The visit was aimed at strengthening ties and fostering collaboration between the two entities in their shared mission of community service.

Speaking on behalf of the board, Deputy Commander Dr. Ibrahim Iyal Gafai explained that the visit was part of the Hisbah Board's objectives to enhance relationships and introduce the board’s officials to the team at Katsina Times. “Although we already have a long-standing relationship with this media house and its Editor-in-Chief, Malam Muhammad Danjuma Katsina, we are here to further solidify our bond and show mutual respect,” he said.

In his remarks, the  Editor-in-Chief of Katsina Times and CEO of Matasa Media Links, Malam Muhammad Danjuma Katsina, expressed his gratitude to the Hisbah Board and commended their efforts. He described Dr. Ibrahim Iyal Gafai as more than a colleague, emphasizing their familial ties, which extend beyond professional interactions. He also praised the Hisbah Commander, Dr. Aminu Usman (Abu Ammar), as a dedicated individual he has known even before the board was established.

Danjuma Katsina assured the board of the media house's support in promoting their initiatives. “I have directed my team to give maximum attention to the positive objectives of the Hisbah Board, ensuring 90% coverage of their activities,” he stated.

However, the Editor-in-Chief underscored the media's role as a public institution, highlighting its commitment to unbiased reporting. “As a media house, our primary duty is to serve the public. While we value our relationships, our commitment to truthful and balanced reporting sometimes leads us to publish stories that may not be favorable to all parties involved. This is not an act of hostility but a call for accountability and improvement,” he explained.

He further encouraged open communication between the board and the media, stating, “If we make an error, do not hesitate to reach out to us for corrections. Similarly, as journalists, we may occasionally contact you for clarifications when we receive complaints involving your board. This helps us ensure balanced reporting.”

In conclusion, the Editor-in-Chief wished the Hisbah Board success on behalf of Katsina Times and its staff.

The visit signifies a step toward fostering collaboration and mutual understanding between the two organizations. It is noteworthy that Katsina Times was the first media outlet to expose secret videos highlighting immoral practices in Katsina State before the establishment of the Hisbah Board. The newspaper has since maintained its commitment to combating societal ills and promoting positive change.