June 26 (THEWILL) — The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has condemned the recent harassment of journalists while carrying out their lawful duties within court premises, calling on relevant authorities to uphold press freedom and guarantee the safety of media practitioners.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the union’s congress held recently at the NUJ Press Centre, Information Drive, Uyo.
The congress reaffirmed that journalists must be allowed to perform their constitutional responsibility without intimidation, obstruction or undue interference, stressing that a free press remains indispensable to democracy and good governance.
The union also commended the Federal Government for the ongoing reconstruction of the Calabar–Itu Highway, but urged the contractors and relevant authorities to incorporate adequate drainage infrastructure to address recurring flooding that has displaced residents and caused hardship in affected communities.
On healthcare, the congress applauded the Akwa Ibom State Government for inaugurating the Ibom International Hospital, describing the facility as a major boost to healthcare delivery and medical tourism. It, however, appealed to the state government to expedite the completion and full operationalisation of the Ibom Specialist Hospital to improve access to quality healthcare services.
Journalists expressed appreciation to the Akwa Ibom State Government for appointing an NUJ member to the State Road Maintenance Committee, saying the gesture reflects confidence in the media profession and has strengthened the relationship between the government and the union.
Congress also expressed concern over the increasing influx of persons engaged in commercial motorcycle transportation, scrap metal trading and scavenging activities in Eket Local Government Area. While recognising the constitutional rights of Nigerians to live and work anywhere in the country, the union urged local authorities and security agencies to strengthen profiling and monitoring of individuals and their activities in the interest of public safety.
It further called on security and regulatory agencies, including the Nigerian Immigration Service, to intensify monitoring of scrap metal dealers and scavengers operating in parts of the state to ensure compliance with extant laws and regulations.
On the criminal justice system, the union expressed concern over overcrowding in correctional facilities, particularly the high number of awaiting-trial inmates at the Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre. It urged the judiciary and other stakeholders to accelerate the hearing of pending cases to decongest custodial facilities and promote efficient justice delivery.
The congress also appealed to the Eket Local Government Council and relevant environmental agencies to regulate the open processing of cow skin and related activities within the area, noting that the practice poses environmental, public health and sanitation risks to surrounding communities.
Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, the NUJ pledged to continue defending press freedom, supporting good governance and contributing to the socio-economic development of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
