By: Jamilu Badamasi, Sokoto
A high-powered delegation comprising three Deputy Directors of the State Security Service (SSS) and the Chief Detail of the Sokoto State Government House has tendered an unreserved apology to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council, and its Secretary, Comrade Muhammad Nasir Bello, over the recent assault on the journalist.
The Department of State Services (DSS), Sokoto State Command, visited the NUJ leadership in Sokoto to express deep regret over the incident which occurred while Bello was covering an official function at the Government House.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Chairman of the NUJ, Sokoto State Council, Comrade Usman Muhammad Binji, and made available to newsmen in Sokoto.
According to the statement, the DSS delegation stressed that it was never the intention or directive of the Service to humiliate, intimidate or harass any journalist carrying out his legitimate professional duties.
The delegation assured the Council that such an unfortunate incident would not recur and disclosed that appropriate administrative sanctions would be taken against the personnel found culpable.
The DSS representatives also acknowledged the long-standing cordial working relationship between the Service and the media in the state, and expressed their commitment to strengthening and sustaining the existing partnership for the overall interest of peace, security and democracy.
In his response, the NUJ Chairman said the Council appreciates the apology and assurances offered by the DSS, describing them as an important step towards addressing the incident and preventing future occurrence.
The NUJ, however, reiterated its commitment to promoting responsible and ethical journalism while maintaining a professional and collaborative relationship with security agencies and other stakeholders.
The Council emphasized that the safety, dignity and freedom of journalists must be respected at all times, particularly in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities of informing the public and holding government accountable.
The Council further expressed hope that the assurances given by the DSS leadership would be matched with concrete actions to ensure that journalists in the state operate in a safe and conducive environment without fear of harassment or molestation.
(Focus News 24)
