The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, has distanced itself from a publication circulating on social media alleging the exclusion of some publishers and media owners from official transportation arrangements to the groundbreaking ceremony of the Plateau State ultra-modern abattoir project.
The council also passed a vote of confidence on the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, commending her efforts in sustaining engagement between government and media stakeholders in the state.
The position of the council was contained in a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the NUJ Plateau State Council, Ayuku Pwaspo, ANIPR, and the Secretary, Mary Domtur.
The statement clarified that the views expressed in the publication did not represent the official position of the union but were those of the individuals involved.
According to the statement, the issue arose during transportation arrangements to the groundbreaking ceremony of the Plateau State ultra-modern abattoir project held at Pwomol, Heipang District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The council explained that although some journalists were unable to board the vehicles provided for transportation to the venue, alternative arrangements were made.
The statement read: “Some of our members were unable to board the vehicles provided for transportation to the venue but made alternative arrangements through personal vehicles and public transportation to attend the event.”
NUJ urged media practitioners and stakeholders to embrace dialogue and existing channels of engagement rather than public actions capable of creating unnecessary tension within the media space.
The council stated: “While recognising that concerns may occasionally arise during official assignments, affected parties should utilise mechanisms for resolution rather than resorting to public narratives capable of creating unnecessary tension within the media industry.”
The union further maintained that administrative decisions regarding media coordination at government functions should be understood within the context of established procedures and logistics.
According to the statement, “As a professional body committed to responsible journalism, ethical conduct and constructive engagement, the Council believes that administrative decisions surrounding media coordination at government functions should not be interpreted without full understanding of established protocols and procedures.”
The council also acknowledged what it described as the Commissioner’s efforts in strengthening government-media relations.
It stated: “The Council acknowledges the efforts of the Plateau State Ministry of Information and Communication under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap in sustaining engagement with media stakeholders across the state and promoting effective government information dissemination.”
Consequently, the union unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the Commissioner.
According to the statement, “The NUJ Plateau State Council expresses a vote of confidence in the Commissioner for Information and Communication and commends her commitment to strengthening communication channels between government and the media.”
The council reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting professional standards and fostering mutual respect among journalists, media owners, government institutions and the public in the overall interest of Plateau State.
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