The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Gombe State Council, has reiterated its commitment to protecting its members across the state from any form of intimidation and harassment.
The State’s Chairman, Mr Saidu Malala, gave the assurance in a statement issued in Gombe on Wednesday as part of the council’s activities to commemorate the 2023 World Press Freedom Day.
Malala said the union had been protecting the interest of practising journalists in the state to ensure that any obstacles that might hinder them from carrying out their duties effectively were removed.
“We are doing everything humanly possible to protect and defend the integrity and ensure safety of both journalists and the media organisations against any form of intimidation, molestation, harassment or attacks,” the chairman said.
He said the theme of this year’s commemoration was apt considering the importance attached to safety of journalists all over the world.
While lauding practising journalists in the state for their contributions to the development of the state, Malala urged them to continue to make positive impact in the state and nation.
The chairman, however, appealed to members to practice in line with the professional ethics and principles, devoid of sentiments for the good of the profession and the society in general.
Malala also called on governments at all levels to ensure safety of journalists and free access to information as the right to freedom of expression as enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
According to reports, 2023 World Press Freedom Day theme is “Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights.”