Claims of No Splinter in Adamawa Correspondents’ Chapel—Denial of Reality?

Yola, Adamawa State- March 22, 2025

The Adamawa State Correspondents’ Chapel, a body representing journalists in the state, has recently been embroiled in controversy over allegations of a splinter leadership. While the Ibrahim Kado-led faction has denied these claims, dismissing them as “false and misleading,” a closer examination of the issues raised during his press conference reveals significant concerns about transparency, accountability, and the integrity of the electoral process that led to the emergence of parallel leadership factions.

Mr. Kado has maintained that the election process was conducted in compliance with constitutional provisions. However, several irregularities have cast doubt on this assertion. One of the most pressing issues is the composition of the Credentials Committee, which plays a critical role in ensuring the fairness of elections. 

Notably, Talatu Maiwada, a member of the Credentials Committee, was unexpectedly elected to the executive of Kado’s faction. This raises questions about potential conflicts of interest and whether the committee’s neutrality was compromised.

Additionally, the decision to move the election to an alternative venue, deviating from the chapel’s traditional location, has further fueled suspicions. Such a move, without clear justification, undermines confidence in the process and suggests a lack of transparency. These irregularities have left many members of the chapel questioning the legitimacy of the election and the leadership it produced.

Rather than addressing these concerns head-on, Mr. Kado has chosen to dismiss them as “unethical and partisan.” This approach not only undermines the principles of fairness and democracy but also stifles constructive dialogue. A democratic institution like the Correspondents’ Chapel should encourage open debate and transparency, especially when questions about its leadership arise. By labeling legitimate concerns as partisan, Kado risks alienating members and eroding trust in his leadership.

The report by TGNews, highlighted these issues and called for accountability. Instead of engaging with the report’s findings, Kado’s faction has threatened retractions and accused the platform of bias. This defensive posture does little to reassure members of the chapel or the public about the legitimacy of the leadership. If the faction is confident in its mandate, it should welcome scrutiny and address the concerns raised, rather than resorting to threats and dismissals.

The credibility of any leadership rests on its ability to uphold democratic values, including transparency, inclusivity, and accountability. The Adamawa Correspondents’ Chapel is no exception. A leadership that genuinely represents its members’ interests must be willing to engage in open dialogue, address concerns, and demonstrate a commitment to fair processes.

Mr. Kado’s focus should shift from defending his faction’s actions to fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to him by his supporters. This includes fostering unity within the chapel, addressing the grievances of dissenting members, and ensuring that future processes are conducted with the utmost integrity.

The allegations of a splinter leadership in the Adamawa Correspondents’ Chapel cannot be dismissed lightly. The irregularities surrounding the electoral process, coupled with the leadership’s dismissive attitude toward legitimate concerns, highlight the need for greater transparency and accountability. Upholding the integrity of the chapel’s leadership requires a commitment to democratic principles and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. Only through openness and inclusivity can the chapel regain the trust of its members and the public it serves.