The Kano State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has sanctioned its Secretary, Abubakar Shehu Kwaru, over allegations of administrative misconduct and financial misappropriation, while also reaffirming the critical role of ethical journalism in promoting peace and accountability.
This was part of resolutions reached at the Third Congress Meeting of the Council held on Monday at the NUJ Press Centre in Kano, which drew a large turnout of journalists from various media chapels across the state.
In his opening remarks, the Council Chairman, Comrade Suleiman Abdullahi Dederi, commended members for their continued commitment to strengthening unity and professionalism within the union.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the Congress and signed by Comrade Suleiman Abdullahi Dederi, Council Chairman, and Hauwa Suleiman Zahradeen, Acting Secretary, on behalf of the Communiqué Drafting Committee chaired by Comrade Isiyaku Ahmed, with Comrade Adamu Dabo as Secretary and Maryam Muhammed Yakasai as member.
The Congress also adopted the Secretariat and financial reports presented during the session.
A major highlight of the meeting was the unanimous adoption of the report of the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, which found the Council Secretary culpable of administrative infractions and financial mismanagement.
The Congress underscored the need for responsible journalism, particularly in times of insecurity, stressing that media practitioners must balance courage with accuracy and empathy.
It urged journalists to avoid sensationalism that could inflame tensions, while continuing to inform the public and hold authorities accountable through responsible investigative reporting.
Members were also encouraged to prioritize personal safety and adhere strictly to professional ethics in line with global best practices, especially when covering sensitive issues.
To strengthen professionalism and operational efficiency, the Congress approved the introduction of official identification cards for all members and affiliated chapels.
The measure is expected to enhance journalists’ credibility, ease access to assignments, and improve coordination, particularly in high-risk reporting environments.
To keep pace with the evolving media landscape, the Congress called for sustained investment in capacity building, urging the Council to organize regular training and retraining programs.
Areas of focus include digital journalism, fact-checking, conflict-sensitive reporting, and media ethics.
Beyond media practice, the Congress raised concern over the growing problem of drug and substance abuse in Kano State, calling for stronger collaboration among government, civil society, traditional institutions, and security agencies to tackle the menace.
It emphasized the media’s role in driving public awareness and behavioural change.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of agricultural preparedness, urging authorities to ensure timely training of farmers and equitable distribution of essential inputs such as improved seeds, fertilisers, agrochemicals, and irrigation support ahead of the rainy season.
While acknowledging prevailing challenges, the Congress commended the Kano State Government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, as well as the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, for their continued support to media professionals.
The Congress paid tribute to late media veterans, including B.K. Gabari, Hajiya Lami Hafsat Machiddo, Hassana Safiyanu Gimel, Maryam Abdulhameed Magani, and Arabiyu Garba, observing prayers in honour of their contributions to journalism.
Similarly, recently retired journalists, including Acting Permanent Secretary Usman Bello and Comrade Abbas Ibrahim, were applauded for their dedication to service and wished success in their future endeavours.
As the rainy season approaches, residents across the state were also urged to participate in community efforts to clear drainage systems to mitigate the risk of flooding.
