Allow Journalists Free Access To Cover Public Functions- NUJ Tells Govt

By Frederick Peters, KADUNA

NEWSDAILYNIGERIA: The Nigeria Union of Journalists, (NUJ) Kaduna state council, has called on the Kaduna state government to allow practising journalists in the state access to cover public functions and events in the state.

The union maintained that any attempt to bar journalists coverage of any public event would be seen as an attempt to gag the Press.

NUJ also lauded Gov Uba Sani’s administration on what it described as “purposeful and impactful” stewardship in the last two years in the areas of infrastructural development and improved security in the state.

In a communiqué at the end its monthly Congress on Thursday, signed by Council Secretary, Gambo Santos Sanga ( Kakakin- Ninzo), the union further commended the state government for the reestablishment of the Ministry of Information in the state.

” The council commended the Kaduna State government over the reintroduction of the state Ministry of Information pointing out that it is a step in the right direction considering the importance of the ministry towards keeping the citizens up to date with the developmental goals of the government, adding that the ministry will further strengthen the existing relationship between the media and the Kaduna State government.

” Council however, urged the state government to ensure that practicing Journalists in the state are allowed free access of coverage on public functions and events, stressing that any attempt to bar Journalists from coverages of public events would be seen as an attempt to gag the press.

” Council while expressing satisfaction over the state government’s concerted efforts on infrastructural development, especially in rural communities also applauded the ongoing work towards the completion of the kabala+ Doki to Barnawa road project noting that the project on completion would ease movement and traffic within the metropolis.

” Council congratulated Governor Uba Sani for a purposeful and impactful two years in office pointing out that Kaduna State has been peaceful as cases of kidnapping and banditry have been drastically reduced through the Governor’s non kinetic approach to security matters.

” The Kaduna State Council of NUJ further commended the Nineteen Northern State Governors for swinging into action by granting approval for the payment of the  severance packages to the workers of the New Nigerian Newspapers, NNN after many years of neglect.

” The Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria union of Journalists, NUJ wishes to reaffirm it’s commitment to advocating for good governance, improved security and sustanable socioeconomic trajectory.” the communiqué added.