James Uche
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State Council, has refuted claims suggesting that press freedom is under threat in the state following the suspension of Mr. Godfrey Chikwere, Acting General Manager of Legacy FM, the first private radio station in Ebonyi.
In a statement on Monday, the State Chairman, Comrade Samson Nwafor, said Governor Francis Nwifuru respects the independence of the press and has never interfered with the constitutional duties of journalists in the state. He stressed that under the present administration, no journalist had been harassed, attacked, or molested by the government or its agents.
“The NUJ, Ebonyi State Council, has been drawn to the activities of some clout-chasing individuals who spread false narratives suggesting that press freedom is under threat in Ebonyi State following the suspension of Mr. Odoh Godfrey Chikwere by his employer,” the statement read. “Journalists in Ebonyi State are enjoying one of the best environments for press freedom in the country. The current administration under Rt. Hon. Bldr Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru does not interfere in the constitutional duties of journalists.”
The Council maintained that Mr. Chikwere’s suspension was an internal decision of his employer and does not in any way amount to an infringement on press freedom.
Comrade Nwafor noted that the NUJ and the state government enjoy cordial relations built on mutual respect. He warned those he described as mischief makers to desist from meddling in the union’s affairs, adding that media practitioners must adhere strictly to professional ethics and avoid allowing personal sentiments to undermine the credibility of journalism.
“We also urge the public to be wary of impostors who parade themselves as journalists without meeting the profession’s requirements,” he said.
The Council reiterated its commitment to protecting press freedom while upholding ethical standards in journalism practice across Ebonyi State.