NUJ ABS Awka Chapel Seeks Enhanced Protection For Journalists, Improved Working Conditions

The newly elected executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), ABS Chapel, Awka, has appealed to the Anambra State Police Command to strengthen the protection of journalists and support efforts aimed at improving their working environment.

The appeal was made during a courtesy visit to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Anambra State Police Command, Superintendent of Police (SP) Tochukwu Ikenga, at the Command Headquarters, Amawbia.

The delegation was led by the Chairman of the chapel, Comrade Emma Okonkwo, alongside the Vice Chairman, Comrade Uchenna Ifeanyi; the Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Chigbata; the Assistant Secretary, Comrade Mary Chidiogo; the Financial Secretary, Comrade Blessing Dennis; the Auditor, Comrade Lilian Egboruche; and Comrade Toochukwu Ochie.

Speaking during the visit, Comrade Okonkwo commended SP Ikenga for his professionalism and accessibility, saying that the new executive would prioritize the protection and welfare of journalists, and called for continued police support whenever media practitioners face threats while carrying out their duties.

He also drew attention to the poor condition of the ABS newsroom and editing suites, appealing for intervention to provide a safer and more conducive working environment for journalists, and reaffirmed the chapel’s commitment to sustaining a cordial relationship with the Police Command.

Responding, SP Ikenga congratulated the new executive and urged them to provide purposeful leadership, describing the Police and the media as strategic partners in nation-building, and encouraged journalists to uphold professionalism, fairness and objectivity in their reportage.

The police spokesman urged journalists to avoid sensational and sentimental reports capable of undermining security operations, citing the recent Adazi-Ani incident as an example, and assured that investigations were ongoing and justice would be served.

SP Ikenga also expressed concern over the condition of the ABS newsroom and assured the delegation of his support in advocating for a better working environment for journalists.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Vice Chairman of the chapel, Comrade Ifeanyi, appreciated the Police Public Relations Officer for the warm reception and assurances of support, pledging that the new executive would continue to partner with the Police in promoting responsible journalism, peace and security in Anambra State.