The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun Council, has condemned the attack on its Secretary by security agents attached to Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun state.
Comrade Wale Olanrenwaju, the Council Chairman, stated this in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Saturday.
Olanrewaju condemned the deplorable, unjustifiable and inhumane attack on the Secretary of the Council, Comrade Bunmi Adigun and his camera man from the Ogun State Television (OGTV) by the overzealous and uncivilized security agents attached to Governor Ademola Adeleke.
newsbarrelng reports that the incident occurred, at Joga-Orile in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State.
” This reckless and reprehensible behaviour towards a member of the press, who was simply carrying out his professional duties, is utterly unacceptable and cannot be tolerated in a democratic society, granted that any form of assault on a journalist is an affront to the fundamental principles of press freedom and the right of citizens to access accurate and unbiased information. The press must remain free, unshackled, and empowered to fulfill its vital role in society.
” It is deeply concerning that individuals entrusted with the responsibility of upholding law and order would resort to using excessive force and intimidation against journalists. Such actions not only undermine the integrity of the media but also erode the trust between the government and the people it serves.
” We urge the Governor Adeleke to take swift and decisive action to hold the perpetrators of this attack accountable and to ensure that measures are put in place to safeguard the rights and safety of journalists as attacks on the press will not be tolerated in any form and that those responsible shall be made to face the full force of the law.
” As a unified body, we stand in solidarity with our colleague and strongly demand an immediate public apology to our colleague and a commitment from the Governor of Osun State to uphold the rights and safety of journalists. Any failure to address this matter with the urgency and seriousness it warrants will be viewed as a disregard for the rule of law and an assault on press freedom.
