Nasarawa commissioner debunks report of Humiliation in his hometown

Mohammed Sani Ottos, Nasarawa State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, has dismissed reports that he faced public humiliation and harassment in his hometown during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. In a statement, Abdulrahman Akaki, SA Media to the Commissioner, said the report, based on a selectively edited video and unverified claims, peddles falsehoods that malign the […]

Mohammed Sani Ottos, Nasarawa State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, has dismissed reports that he faced public humiliation and harassment in his hometown during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

In a statement, Abdulrahman Akaki, SA Media to the Commissioner, said the report, based on a selectively edited video and unverified claims, peddles falsehoods that malign the Commissioner’s reputation and undermine his exemplary leadership.

Akaki said the viral video circulating online was deliberately edited to erase context and fabricate a narrative of “public humiliation.”

The statement reads: “Contrary to the claims, Hon. Ottos were not “harassed” or “whisked away” from danger. His presence at the Eid ground was a deliberate act of solidarity with his kinsmen, a tradition he upholds and cherishes. The skirmishes arose from a longstanding traditional tussle between two respected community leaders, not hostility toward the Commissioner.

“Upon arrival, Hon. Ottos encountered tensions between supporters of His Royal Highness Alhaji Abdullahi Kuku (Osu Onda) and Alhaji Usman Ode, a revered elder. Demonstrating his commitment to peace, he immediately intervened to mediate, de-escalate emotions, and restore order. His calm diplomacy ensured both leaders observed prayers side by side, a fact corroborated by unedited footage showing the duo seated peacefully in the front row during prayers.

“The Commissioner’s tears were born of empathy, not fear or humiliation. As a leader deeply invested in his community’s unity, he was moved by the sight of brothers in conflict. This emotional response underscores his humanity and dedication to harmony, a far cry from Sahara Reporters’ insinuation of weakness.

“Claims of “consistent hostility” toward Hon. Ottos are baseless. Following the incident, Osu Onda himself led a delegation to the Commissioner’s residence in Koba to express gratitude for his timely intervention, which averted potential violence. The community hailed him as a God-sent peacemaker, a testament to his revered status in Onda.

“It is deeply regrettable that Sahara Reporters published its report without verifying facts, consulting community leaders, or contextualizing the video. Journalism demands integrity, not amplification of politically motivated falsehoods. The outlet’s failure to contact the Commissioner’s office for comment, despite our open-door policy, exposes a reckless disregard for truth.

“Hon. Mohammed Sani Ottos remains a pillar of progress in Nasarawa State. His record speaks for itself. He was elected twice as Chairman of Nasarawa Local Government Area. He is presently supporting the administration of His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi A. Sule to achieve its development objective to transform Nasarawa State in his capacity as the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry. To suggest he is “unpopular” insults the thousands who benefit daily from his leadership.”