By: Grace Egbo
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State Council, has reportedly blacklisted Senator Ken Eze following the alleged assault on the state NUJ Chairman, Comrade Samson Nwafor, during a political confrontation at Onueke, headquarters of Ezza South Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on Monday shortly after the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for Ebonyi Central Senatorial District held at the council headquarters.
Tension was said to have erupted when Senator Eze allegedly confronted the NUJ chairman over what he described as unfavourable media reports concerning his political activities and re-election bid.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that the heated verbal exchange later degenerated as some aides and loyalists of the senator allegedly descended on the NUJ chairman during the altercation.
The development caused panic at the venue, with journalists, party supporters and political stakeholders stepping in to prevent the situation from spiralling out of control.
Following the incident, journalists under the umbrella of the NUJ in Ebonyi State reportedly resolved to boycott all activities involving Senator Eze pending further directive from the union leadership.
Members of the union condemned the alleged attack, describing it as a direct assault on press freedom and an attempt to intimidate journalists from carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
They insisted that media practitioners in the state would remain committed to professionalism, accountability and the defence of democratic values despite threats or harassment.
The incident continued to spark reactions among journalists, civil society groups and political observers across the state, with many calling for mutual respect and healthy engagement between public office holders and the media.
As of the time of filing this report, efforts to obtain Senator Eze’s reaction to the allegations proved unsuccessful. (Nigerian Tribune)
