NTA Chapel Condemns Assault on Reporter by Gov. Buni’s Chief Security
By Babakarami Isah
The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Damaturu Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed outrage over the alleged assault on its correspondent, Mr Babagana Kolo, by the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Yobe State Government House, CSP Yakubu Zakari Deba.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Mr Aliyu Mohammed Babi, the Chapel said Kolo was brutally attacked by the CSO on Thursday while performing his official duty at the Yobe State House of Assembly.
According to the statement, the attack was a blatant attempt to intimidate and silence the press, describing the incident as “an egregious act of violence that undermines press freedom and democratic values”.
“The actions of CSP Deba are reminiscent of a bygone era of brutality and disregard for human rights. Such behaviour has no place in a democratic society,” the statement read.
The Chapel demanded that the Yobe State Police Command take immediate action against CSP Deba, including his arrest and prosecution, to serve as a deterrent to others.
It also called on the Yobe State Government to take concrete steps to guarantee the safety and security of journalists and provide an enabling environment for them to carry out their responsibilities without fear of harassment or violence.
The NUJ Chapel further urged the management of NTA Damaturu to provide medical attention and other necessary support to Kolo to enable him to continue his duties without intimidation.
“The NUJ NTA Damaturu Chapel remains resolute in defending the rights of journalists and ensuring that those who attempt to undermine press freedom are held accountable,” Babi said.
Copies of the statement were forwarded to the Yobe Commissioner of Police, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Commissioner for Information, Home Affairs and Culture, the NUJ Chairman in Yobe, and the National President of the NUJ in Abuja.
