By Hassan Zaggi
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has called on the National Broadcasting Organisation (NBC) to, as, matter of urgency withdraw the fine it imposed on Nigeria Info Radio.
While describing the fine as outrageous and an act of impunity against the media, the NUJ, however, called on the federal government to end the impunity for all crimes against journalists and the media.
It would be recalled that following an interview with the former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Dr. Obadiah Mailafia, the NBC slammed a N5m fine on Nigeria Info, the radio station that aired the interview.
In a statement signed by its National President, Chris Isiguzo, on Monday, the NUJ said: “The reckless decision to impose a fine on Media broadcast stations for perceived hate speeches negates the United Nations General Assembly resolution on the safety of journalists which proclaimed November 02 of each year as the international day to end impunity for crimes against journalists. Promoting the safety of journalists and media organisations and protecting media equipment will enhance transparent societies and keep citizens around the country well informed.
“Clamping down on the media is a sign of weak democracy and a restive government and it is instructive to note that a free and open press is part of the bedrock of democracy and development, and these should be encouraged and sustained.
“While we are committed to the campaigns against attacks and impunity on the press, we reiterate our commitment to press freedom and the pursuit of justice and protection for Journalists in the country, especially in this COVID-19 times.”
The NUJ, therefore, appealed to all stakeholders to join in the war against impunity on the press.
It further called on the NBC to withdraw what it described as “this offensive fine forthwith and engage stakeholders properly in finding better ways and means of dealing with hate speech and fake news.”
