Bauchi NUJ condemns attack on reporter

The Bauchi state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned in strongest terms the attack on a presenter of Albaraka Radio, Ibrahim Bababa by some hoodlums while carrying out his official assignment. It would be recalled that the hoodlums stormed the radio station on Wednesday and attacked the radio presenter while performing his duty at the station’s studio, beat him up and broke his computer. The Council in a press release signed by its Secretary, Yakubu Lame and issued to journalists yesterday said the Union found it necessary to condemn the act because it was carried out while the member was discharging his professional duty. “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”. He decried. 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 fountain of seeking redress anytime they were persecuted. The Council also reminds the general public that journalists are working to protect the interests of all 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”. Samuel Luka, Bauchi