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Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bauchi state Council, has condemned the attack on an Albaraka Radio presenter, Ibrahim Bababa, by hoodlums while he carrying out his official duty.
It would be recalled that the hoodlums had stormed the radio station on Wednesday and attacked the presenter at the station’s studio, beat him up and broke his computer.
The Council, in a press statement signed by its secretary, Yakubu Lame, on Friday, said the Union found it necessary to condemn the act because it was carried out while the member was discharging his professional duty.
It read in part: “During an emergency State Working Committee Meeting of the Union, members unanimously described as unacceptable how hoodlums can gain access into a broadcast studio and successfully carry out their nefarious action”.
“While we share in the grief of the attacked member, we wish to state unequivocally that the attack on journalists as a way of venting anger is uncalled for.”
The Council further described the attack as “despicable, cruel and barbaric,” adding that taking the action would be inimical to the interest of those who viewed journalists “as the fountain of seeking redress anytime they are persecuted.”
The Council also “reminds the general public that journalists are working to protect the interests of people and, therefore, do not deserve such treatment.”
“While we appeal to security agencies to take effective measures for better protection of journalists in their assignments, the Council hereby directs our esteemed colleagues to shun all activities of any political party who could not provide the barest minimum security for journalists who are reporting their activities.”
