CSP Yakubu Zakari-Deba, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Yobe State Government House, has publicly apologised to Mr. Babagana Kolo, a reporter with the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) in Damaturu, for allegedly assaulting him.
Deba tendered his apology on Friday during a visit to the NTA office in Damaturu, expressing deep regret over the incident that occurred earlier in the week at the Yobe State House of Assembly complex.
Reports indicated that the CSO had struck Kolo during a brief commotion outside the Assembly chambers, just hours before Governor Mai Mala Buni presented the 2026 budget proposal.
Speaking at the visit, Deba explained that the altercation happened while he was attempting to control a large crowd trying to gain access to the gallery.
“I was directed to ensure the security of about 73 attendees for the budget presentation,” he said.
“When I noticed some people trying to bypass the mandatory security screening, I moved in to maintain order. Unfortunately, the incident occurred in the process. It was a mistake, and I sincerely apologise.”
The visibly remorseful officer assured journalists of his respect for their work and pledged to foster better relations between security personnel and the media.
Responding, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Yobe State Chapter, Mr. Rajab Mohammed, commended Deba for showing maturity and humility by acknowledging his mistake and apologising publicly.
Mohammed urged security personnel to always treat journalists as partners in nation-building rather than adversaries, adding that effective collaboration between both professions was essential for peace and development.
The visit concluded with group photographs and friendly exchanges between the CSO and the NTA reporter.
