The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has called for an investigation into the reported attack on journalists by an officer of the Department of State Services during the Edo Governorship Election Tribunal at the High Court in Benin on Monday.
The directive was revealed in a statement issued by the chairman and secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State Council, Festus Alenkhe and Andy Egbon.
The NUJ commended Governor Okpebholo for his decisive action in addressing the alleged attack. “We are deeply grateful to Governor Okpebholo for his prompt intervention, which has sent a strong message that attacks on journalists will not be tolerated in Edo State,” the NUJ statement read.
The union expressed appreciation for the governor’s quick response, describing it as a demonstration of his commitment to safeguarding the rights of media practitioners in the state.
Okpebholo has directed security agencies to investigate the allegations made by the NUJ. The NUJ noted, “The governor has since directed the security agency to investigate claims by the NUJ accordingly.”
The NUJ further called on all stakeholders to support the governor in promoting respect for journalists and their fundamental rights.
The NUJ emphasized that the governor’s actions align with democratic principles and the rule of law. “We urge all stakeholders to join hands with Governor Okpebholo in promoting a culture of respect for the media and the fundamental rights of journalists,” the union added.
The NUJ also pledged its support for the governor’s efforts to ensure a safe and enabling environment for media practitioners in Edo State.
