ANA disowns Integrity Forum, approves new groups for official operations
By Wole Adedoyin
The Association of Nigerian Authors has announced its official dissociation from the WhatsApp group known as the ANA Integrity Forum. This decision comes in response to the group’s hijacking by fraudulent individuals posing as authors, which caused a crisis within the association in Enugu back in 2019. ANA issued a stern warning to its members to withdraw themselves from the ANA Integrity Forum immediately. The group, led by non-financial and non-card carrying members of ANA, has engaged in activities contrary to the principles and values of the Association.
In a state issued by ANA PRO (South) Isaiah Ebhodhage, said in a significant move to streamline communication and promote collaboration among its members, the National Secretariat of the Association of Nigerian Authors has approved three official WhatsApp platforms for its operations. The following platforms have received official endorsement:
The Mbari Series Platform
ANA Situation Room
ANA Watchdog
“ANA has meticulously selected these platforms to ensure effective communication and facilitate meaningful interactions among its members throughout the nation. By centralizing its operations through these approved channels, the Association aims to uphold transparency and preserve the core essence of ANA,” the statement said.
Maik Ortserga, the General Secretary of ANA, emphasised the necessity of disbanding any WhatsApp groups operating under the ANA name without official approval. Such unauthorized platforms do not represent ANA’s interests or values and may create confusion among members. The Association calls upon the administrators of these unauthorized groups to promptly comply with this directive.
“ANA recognises the essential role WhatsApp groups play in fostering engagement and cooperation among writers. However, maintaining uniformity in communication channels is crucial to prevent misinformation and fragmentation within the writing community. By endorsing the three platforms mentioned above, ANA aims to create a cohesive and supportive environment for all its members.
“All ANA members are strongly advised to exit any WhatsApp groups operating under ANA’s name, which are not part of the officially approved platforms. This measure ensures that ANA members participate in discussions and share information exclusively on the sanctioned platforms, thus enabling more efficient and focused interactions.
“As ANA continues to promote the art of writing and literary excellence across Nigeria, the Association looks forward to strengthening its bond with members through these officially approved WhatsApp platforms. These communication channels will play a pivotal role in fostering camaraderie and enriching the creative experience of all our esteemed members,” Ortserga added.