NUJ condemns alleged harassment of journalists at Akure flyover flag-off
By Boye Oyeyemi
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, has condemned the alleged harassment of journalists by hoodlums during the flag-off of the second Akure flyover, warning that attempts to intimidate media practitioners would not be tolerated.
The union stated its position in a communique issued after its monthly congress at the NUJ Press Centre, Alagbaka, Akure, and presided over by the Chairman, Prince Leke Adegbite. According to the communique, signed by the State Secretary, Olaoluwa Meshack, the journalists were allegedly harassed during the ceremony by a group led by one Temitope Romeo.
The NUJ said the group allegedly claimed to be employees of Bulletine Construction Company, the firm handling the flyover project. The union, however, called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the construction company to investigate the incident and take appropriate action against Romeo and his associates if found culpable.
It stressed that threats, harassment or any action capable of undermining journalists’ constitutional responsibilities and press freedom would be resisted. The union urged all stakeholders involved in public projects to respect journalists’ right to carry out their professional duties without intimidation or obstruction.
Meanwhile, the congress congratulated Aiyedatiwa and residents of Akure on the commencement of the flyover project along the Oyemekun-Oba Adesida-St. Mathias Road. It also urged the contractor to increase the pace of work and ensure that the project is completed within the scheduled period.
In addition, the NUJ appealed to the state Ministries of Infrastructure and Transport to remove what it described as unnecessary tricycle and motorcycle parks along Arakale Road. The union said clearing the road would improve traffic flow, particularly because it serves as an alternative route for motorists during the flyover construction.
The congress also expressed concern over the persistent foul odour reported in Akure and its environs, particularly at night, and urged the state government to intensify efforts to identify its source and implement a lasting solution. It further raised concern over the shortage of vehicle number plates in the state and appealed to the Federal Road Safety Corps and other security agencies to avoid penalising motorists solely over the shortage while efforts are made to resolve the problem.
The NUJ congress also passed a vote of confidence in the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, citing his contributions to journalism and support for conducive working conditions in media houses across the state. It equally approved a seven-member committee to plan the “Ondo NUJ Golden Jubilee,” marking 50 years of journalism in the state.
