In commemoration of this year’s International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ, Rivers State council has decried rising threats and violence against journalists.
NUJ in a statement by the Council Chairman, Comrade Paul Bazia-Nsaneh, and Secretary, Dr. Ijeoma Tubosia, joined the global community to commemorate the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, observed annually on November 2.
The Union called for a safer working environment, stressing that journalists deserve better, urging government, security agencies to protect journalists even as it reaffirmed its commitment to Journalists’ safety and welfare.
NUJ expressed worry that despite the establishment of national safety mechanisms, there has been persistent rise in impunity against journalists despite.
“There has been an increase in threats, harassment, and violence faced by journalists while discharging their duties, both within the state and across the country.”
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The NUJ called on government authorities, security agencies, employers of labour, and well-meaning individuals to ensure a safe and enabling environment for journalists to carry out their responsibilities without fear of harm.
“Journalists deserve better for their sacrifices in pursuit of truth, accountability, and justice for society.”
Reaffirming its commitment to advocate for the safety, welfare, and professional development of journalists in the state, the Rivers NUJ also urged media practitioners to prioritize their personal safety.
The Union advised journalists, particularly those covering sensitive or high-risk assignments, to conduct risk assessments before fieldwork, exercise caution at crime scenes, remain law-abiding, and always uphold the ethical standards of the profession.
