By Dada Ahmed.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed grave concern over the worsening insecurity across the country, particularly in Benue, Zamfara, and Plateau States, warning that the spate of banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and violent crimes is threatening lives, livelihoods, and national unity.
In a copy of the communique available to The Reporters on Monday in Lokoja,the union raised the alarm in Kano on Tuesday during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Union, held at the Tahir Guest Palace Hotel and presided over by NUJ President, Comrade Alhasan Yahya.
The NEC urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify coordinated efforts to restore peace, safeguard citizens, and prevent Nigeria from “sliding into further lawlessness.”
The meeting also addressed other pressing national issues, including the deplorable condition of federal and state roads, with delegates citing dangerous road networks in Delta, Bauchi, Gombe–Taraba, Benue, Rivers, Enugu, and Kogi States.
The Union lamented the loss of lives and disruption of economic activities caused by failed roads and called for immediate rehabilitation of critical infrastructure.
On media relations, the NUJ frowned at the unprofessional conduct of some Chief Press Secretaries (CPS) to governors, accusing them of hostility towards journalists and obstructing NUJ council leaders from engaging state executives.
The Union urged governors to foster open relationships with the press, describing journalists as partners in progress rather than adversaries.
In recognition of good governance, the NEC passed a vote of confidence on Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State for his inclusive leadership and support for press freedom.
Commendations were also extended to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State for facilitating the payment of outstanding entitlements to former staff of the defunct New Nigeria Newspapers, and Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State for donating brand-new SUVs to members of the NUJ State Working Committee.
The Union further called on Federal and State Governments to ensure full implementation of the new ₦70,000 minimum wage across media organisations, alongside welfare packages for journalists.
It, however,warned against censorship of the media by state authorities and pressed for proactive measures to mitigate flood disasters nationwide through early warnings, environmental enforcement, and timely relocation of residents in flood-prone areas.
The NEC reaffirmed NUJ’s commitment to defending press freedom, promoting democratic ideals, and partnering with government to advance national development, transparency, and accountability.
The communiqué was signed by NUJ National Secretary, Achike Chude, alongside members of the drafting committee.
Other signatories to the communique are:Communiqué Drafting Committee
Zare Baba, VP Zone E,
Chairman of the Committee
Mahmood Olayinka Alaya
Secretary of the Committee & Secretary Kwara Council
Umar Sa’idu, Member
Chairman Baúchi State Council.
Comrade Bemdoo Ugber
Chairman Benue Council
Member.
Aisha Ahmed -(Secretary Jigawa Council) Member.
