The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has disowned a Facebook-based platform operating under the name Secrets Reporter, saying it is not recognised or accredited by the union.
The union said it had received complaints from members of the public, public officials and journalists over alleged blackmail, ethical violations and unprofessional conduct attributed to the platform.
In a press statement signed by its Assistant National Secretary, Tita Onyebuchi Nze, the NUJ said the platform was neither registered with any of its state councils or chapels nor listed among recognised media organisations in its records.
It also stated that the identities of the platform’s promoters, publishers and editorial managers were unknown to the union, adding that none had formally identified themselves to its National Secretariat or recognised organs.
The NUJ said it could not vouch for the platform’s professional standing or journalistic conduct and was therefore unable to establish whether it complied with the Code of Ethics for Nigerian Journalists.
While reaffirming its commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression, the union stressed that these rights must be exercised responsibly and within the law.
It warned against using media platforms for blackmail, intimidation, sensationalism, extortion or settling personal disputes, emphasising that journalism must be guided by truth, accuracy, fairness, verification and accountability.
The union further clarified that it had no institutional or professional jurisdiction over the platform or its unidentified operators and would therefore not investigate or adjudicate complaints arising from its activities.
It advised individuals who felt aggrieved by the platform to seek redress through law enforcement agencies and other relevant statutory authorities.
The NUJ also challenged those behind Secrets Reporter to disclose their identities and clarify their professional status, noting that anyone practising journalism must be willing to uphold the profession’s ethical standards.
The union, however, warned that it would not shield any journalist found guilty of professional misconduct, regardless of status or affiliation.
It reiterated its determination to defend press freedom, promote responsible journalism and protect the integrity of the journalism profession in Nigeria.