By Princess Simon (Bureau Chief North Central, in Minna)
Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Niger state Council, Comrade Abu Nmodu, has expressed concerns over poor access to people in positions of authority by journalists to enable them accurately; inform, educate and entertain the citizenry about events as it unfolds in the state.
Comrade Abu made his feelings known when he paid a congratulatory visit to the new General Manager of Radio Niger, Mohammed Kolo, in his office. He added that a situation whereby journalists are seen as enemies instead of partners in progress only further widens the gap between the two groups which is not in the public interest.
Nnmodu stated that "In real democratic setting; we have the Executive, the Judiciary, the Legislature and the Media, which is the Fourth in the estate of realm. But this is far from what is obtainable as the press are almost completely kept out of informations about the policies and programmes of the government.
"Because vital informations are hoarded from journalists, they will be forced to do their jobs based on speculations what is happening and doing so will lead to being accused of not carrying out investigation before thereby discrediting such reporters".
Comrade who cited many state government officials with such habits however pointed out that the present administration in the state was doing alot to develop the state but lack of access by officials was hindering effective dissemination of information about achievements so far.
He therefore implored government functionaries to see journalists not as enemies but partners in progress and evolve effective and well coordinated channel of communication that would enable newsmen build their image efficiently and report government activities without fear of molestations.
Abu told his host that one of the major challenges facing the union in the state is the activities of quacks, adding however that the union has put in place internal mechanisms to check the trend..
Abu expressed sadness that unhindered access and patronage by people in positions of authority have been fertilizing the activities of the quacks and therefore wants the government to stop such unprofessionals from thriving.
While urging members of the public to report any non-journalist claiming to be one to the union, the Chairman assured the new General Manager of Radio Niger of the union's support and cooperation to enable him succeed.
Responding, the new General Manager of Radio Niger Malam Mohammed Kolo, appreciated NUJ delegation for the visit and promised to support the union leadership in ridding the union of people who are not journalists but claiming to be one.
Kolo emphasized the need for the government to involve the NUJ and RATTAWU while recruiting those to work as government media managers and as well during job placements to guarantee professionalism. NNL.
