The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has denied a report alleging that its Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, used the Department of State Services (DSS) to detain a journalist and was involved in corrupt practices.
In a statement issued on Today, October 22, 2025, and signed by Ahmad Muazu, Technical Assistant (Media) to the Chairman, the Commission described the report published by Newspoint Nigeria as “reckless, defamatory, and entirely fabricated.”
The publication, titled “How NAHCON Chairman Used DSS To Detain News Point Nigeria’s Editor for Exposing Corruption, Pro-Shettima Reports,” was dismissed by the Commission as a work of fiction aimed at damaging Professor Usman’s reputation and undermining the Commission’s integrity.
“The Chairman/CEO, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, did not at any time order, direct, or request the arrest of any journalist or media practitioner, whether through the DSS or any other security agency,” the statement read.
NAHCON challenged the NEWS AGENCY to provide verifiable evidence to support its allegations, describing the corruption and political interference claims as “baseless and recycled.” It stressed that the Commission’s current leadership remains committed to transparency, accountability, and due process.
“The Commission has consistently cooperated with all regulatory and anti-corruption agencies through the appropriate government channels,” it added.
Reacting to claims that Professor Usman disrespected Vice President Kashim Shettima or reported him to President Bola Tinubu, NAHCON described the allegations as “entirely fabricated and unethical,” noting that the Chairman maintains a “professional and respectful relationship with the Vice President’s office and all government institutions.”
The Commission also clarified that an individual identified in the Newspoint report as a “Senior Journalist and former Managing Director of Radio Kano” has no affiliation with NAHCON, adding that linking him to the agency was misleading.
While reaffirming its respect for press freedom, NAHCON warned that it would not tolerate deliberate attempts to tarnish its image or mislead the public under the guise of journalism. It said the Commission intends to seek redress through appropriate media regulatory bodies.
Accusing Newspoint Nigeria of running “a prolonged campaign of blackmail and falsehood,” the Commission said the outlet had repeatedly published unverified stories without granting NAHCON a right of reply, contrary to journalism ethics and the Nigerian Press Council’s Code of Conduct.
“The Nigerian public, especially members of the Muslim Ummah, should disregard this false report and similar publications,” the statement concluded, reiterating that NAHCON remains focused on serving Nigerian pilgrims with integrity and professionalism.