The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State Council, has dismissed circulating claims that press freedom is under siege in the state following the suspension of Mr. Godfrey Chikwere, Acting General Manager of Legacy FM, Ebonyi’s first private radio station.
In a statement on Monday, State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Samson Nwafor, affirmed that Governor Francis Nwifuru has consistently respected media independence and never interfered in the constitutional duties of journalists. He emphasized that under the current administration, no journalist has faced harassment, assault, or intimidation from the government or its representatives.
“The NUJ, Ebonyi State Council, is aware of certain individuals peddling misleading narratives that press freedom is under threat after Mr. Odoh Godfrey Chikwere’s suspension by his employer,” the statement read. “Journalists in Ebonyi currently operate in one of the most enabling press environments in the country, with no government interference in their professional responsibilities.”
The union clarified that Mr. Chikwere’s suspension was strictly an internal matter of Legacy FM and should not be misinterpreted as a government attack on the media.
Comrade Nwafor noted that the NUJ and the Ebonyi State Government maintain a cordial relationship built on mutual respect. He cautioned “mischief makers” against meddling in the union’s affairs and urged media practitioners to uphold professional ethics while avoiding personal biases that could damage journalism’s credibility.
He further warned the public to be vigilant against impostors posing as journalists without proper qualifications.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and promoting ethical journalism standards across Ebonyi State.
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