The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Correspondents Chapel urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to disclose his administration’s plan and agenda regarding safety measures and protection for media practitioners and workers in Nigeria.
The union highlighted the toxic and hostile environment Nigerian journalists have faced over the years, deeming it absurd, ridiculous, and unacceptable. In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Jide Oyekunle, Chairman of FCT Correspondents Chapel, and Raphael Oni, the Secretary, on the occasion of this year’s World Press Freedom Day in Abuja, NUJ emphasized the government’s legal obligation to defend and protect fundamental rights, including Press Freedom and Freedom of Expression.
They called for comprehensive safety measures and mechanisms from President Tinubu to enable Nigerian journalists and media workers to carry out their essential roles in democracy effectively. The statement highlighted the risks journalists face, including harassment, intimidation, and physical attacks, demanding concrete steps from the government to guarantee their protection and bring perpetrators of attacks to justice.
NUJ also emphasized the accountability of government and security agents, calling for an end to attacks on journalists and media workers. They reiterated their commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and Press Freedom, emphasizing that journalism is crucial for democracy, good governance, accountability, and transparency.