The Niger State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on Governor Mohammed Umar Bago to exercise caution and uphold democratic principles in the discharge of his executive duties, particularly in matters affecting the media.
The NUJ, during an emergency State Working Committee meeting, emphasized that in exercising executive powers, especially concerning the media, the Governor must recognize the media’s role in holding public officials accountable.
This call follows the Governor’s directive to shut down a private radio station in Minna, Badeggi 90.1 FM.
In a statement issued by the State Secretary of NUJ, Comrade Usman Chiji, the Union noted that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal authority to license or revoke the licenses of radio and television stations, subject to judicial interpretation when necessary.
The NUJ called on the Governor to lodge any complaints through the NBC rather than issuing unilateral directives to close a station, as such actions exceed his executive powers.
The Union further stated that the Governor could have engaged the NUJ, as the professional body, to address any concerns regarding journalistic misconduct.
While cautioning against the gagging of media houses, the Union also urged journalists in the state to adhere strictly to professional ethics to maintain public trust.
It noted that a committee, headed by senior journalist Pastor Dan Amashingha, was recently established to oversee the revalidation of NUJ membership in the state.
The NUJ reminded the Governor of the need to engage media practitioners through dialogue and partnership, rather than resorting to closure orders that violate democratic norms.
The Union, therefore, called for the immediate withdrawal of the shutdown order in the interest of democracy and press freedom.
(Nigerian Tribune)
