The Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA) has disowned a purported “Plateau State Social Media Award” currently being promoted online, warning members of the public, brands, and organizations to disregard the initiative.
In a press statement signed by its Secretary, Ibrahim Kallamu, the Association described the award as lacking credibility, transparency, and the professional standards required to represent the interests of social media practitioners in Plateau State.
PLABOMA, which identified itself as the umbrella body of bloggers, online media practitioners, and influencers in the state and a duly registered organization with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), stated that the award does not have its endorsement, input, or approval.
“The so-called award falls short of acceptable standards and credibility,” the Association said, adding that evidence available to it suggests the promoters are motivated by personal gain rather than professional integrity, with the intention of exploiting unsuspecting Plateau sons and daughters.
The Association further questioned the competence of the organizers, who claim the initiative is aimed at recognizing individuals and brands using social media to add value to the ICT and digital technology ecosystem. According to PLABOMA, the organizers are neither recognized practitioners nor trained professionals in the digital media space, unlike its members who operate under ethical guidelines and continuous capacity development.
PLABOMA also noted that similar initiatives in the past were organized by an individual who was then an executive member of the Association, but whose recent public disclaimer has raised further doubts about the legitimacy and intentions of the current promoters.
The Association said the clarification became necessary in light of its consistent efforts over the years to professionalize and sanitize the digital media space, stressing its commitment to credible and ethical online reporting.
PLABOMA reaffirmed its resolve to uphold integrity, professionalism, and ethical standards in Plateau State’s digital media landscape, in line with its motto, “Promoting credible, ethical online reporting and practices.”
