By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
Bauchi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has unequivocally condemned, in the strongest possible terms, the barbaric and unacceptable assault metted by some Police Officers on a staff of Albarka Radio in Bununu, Tabawa Balewa LG, Bauchi State during the Sallah celebration.
According to the NUJ, “This act of brutality is a gross violation of human rights, a direct attack on press freedom, and a disgraceful display of lawlessness by officers who are expected to protect, not harm, citizens.”
It added, “It is particularly disturbing that such misconduct is occurring at a time when the NUJ is intensifying advocacy for professionalism and accountability among security agencies.”
The NUJ Bauchi State Council therefore demanded that the Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, should immediately investigate the incident and sanction all officers involved in this dastardly act.
In addition, the Union insisted that the Bauchi State Police Command must, without delay, bear full responsibility for and settle all medical expenses incurred by the victim.
The NUJ declared that, “Failure to meet these demands, will compel the Union to summon an emergency Congress in order to decide on the way forward.”
The Council further called on all media houses in the state to remain vigilant and await further directives as the Union will not relent until justice is served and the safety and dignity of journalists are fully guaranteed.
The NUJ will not tolerate intimidation, harassment, or brutality against journalists under any circumstances, as contained in a statement Ẹ-Signed by Isah Garba Gadau, Secretary.
Meanwhile, following the development on the Bauchi Police Media Forum and the subsequent action of the former PPRO, CSP Ahmed Wakil who usurped the incumbent Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Nafiu Habib to shut out our members, including other colleagues from other organisations, the Chapel Leadership has taken the following action;
At the end of an emergency meeting of the Executives on Monday, and after wide consultations with members, the EXCO directed professional members to exit the Bauchi Police Platform pending when the real PPRO will act and show he is in charge.
The Correspondents’ Chapel Executives commended the State Council of the NUJ under the leadership of Comrade Umar Sa’idu for taking action on the brutality meted on Albarka Radio staff by the Police in Bununu.
“This measure is taken to safeguard our dignity and earn respect for ourselves,” As contained in a statement by the Secretary, Luka Samuel.
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