The Ebonyi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has mandated a cessation of coverage for all activities in Ezza North Local Government Area following an attack on three journalists.
The incident involved Mr. Inya Uchenna of Sun Newspapers, Dr. Chinelo Okoro, and Sir Godwin Oguta, both from Radio Nigeria, Unity FM, Abakaliki.
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These journalists were assaulted by armed youths from Nkomoro community during the coronation of a traditional ruler, which escalated into violence.
The NUJ has stated that this directive will remain in effect until the local government compensates the affected journalists for their losses and issues an unreserved written apology, copying the NUJ.
This decision was outlined in a communiqué signed by the State Chairman, Comrade Samson Nwafor, and Secretary, Mr. Nnamdi Akpa, following an emergency Congress meeting.
The Council strongly condemned the attack and called on the State Government and the Commissioner of Police to arrest and prosecute those responsible.
“Congress condemns in its strongest terms, the attack on three members of the Union, Mr. Inya Uchenna of The Sun newspaper, Dr. Chinelo Okoro, and Sir Godwin Oguta, both of Radio Nigeria, Unity FM, Abakaliki, at Nkomoro Community in Ezza North LGA of Ebonyi State, on Saturday, June 15, 2024, by suspected hoodlums during a coronation event in the area,” the communiqué stated.
The Congress described the attack as crude, barbaric, and an attempt to intimidate journalists into self-censorship.
They also criticized the community’s lack of empathy, noting that no sympathies had been expressed to the victims more than four days after the incident.
This lack of response was interpreted as a sign that the attack was premeditated and executed with the community’s consent.
As a result, the Congress directed all NUJ members in Ebonyi State to avoid covering events in Ezza North LGA until appropriate actions are taken to address the situation.
This includes ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice and the victims are compensated for their losses.
