The Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, has called for investigation into the attack on journalists covering the protest, which has resulted to at least 21 injured media professionals.
This was revealed in a statement issued by the NUJ National Secretary, Achike Chude, emphasizing that an apology has to be made from the institutions responsible as well as replacement of the lost and damaged assets of the journalists.
“We are currently investigating this unwholesome and troublesome assault on the profession, and compiling a list of official and personal assets of journalists that were either lost, seized, or damaged to determine their value.
“We expect nothing less than a public apology from the institutions responsible as well as replacement of the lost and damaged assets of the journalists. Nigeria is supposed to be a country of law and order. We expect no less in terms of professional conduct from officials that are being maintained with state resources.” The statement reads.
It further stated that journalists will continue to carry out their responsibilities of engaging the society with a view of informing, enlightening and educating the citizens for the purpose of promoting the public good.
“the hydra-headed monster of journalist intimidation, harassments and seizures of both official and personal assets of members of the press reared its ugly head once more. These acts were carried out by the state and non-state actors.
“This sordid and unacceptable state of affairs, especially those perpetrated by state actors is happening in spite of various conscious efforts by the NUJ to engage government officials and security forces to address the anti-democratic behaviours by those saddled with the responsibility of maintaining law and order.
“We want to assure Nigerians and the authorities, that journalists will neither be cowed nor deterred from carrying out their responsibilities of engaging the society with a view of informing, enlightening and educating the citizens for the purpose of promoting the public good.” The statement added.