The Anambra State council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, has called on its members working in the state to observe professionalism in covering the processes leading to the forthcoming governorship election in the state.
The group hailed it’s members in the state for their professionalism, urging them to do more as the peace and security of the state would depend on their fair and unbiased reportage.
The union, in a communiqué issued at the end of its June congress at the Godwin Ezeemo International Press Center, Awka and signed by the state chairman, Sir Emmanuel Ifesinachi, also deliberated on several issues affecting the union and the state.
It commended journalists in the state for effective coverage of political events, but warned that it would not hesitate to sanction journalists found wanting in the performance of their sacred responsibility.
“We regret the menace of fake journalists in the state and the bad image which these impersonators have brought to the profession and call for public support especially from law enforcement agencies, to enable us deal decisively with this matter,” the communique read.
“I advised political parties and other newsmakers to carry the NUJ along, in all their publicity related activities, to avoid falling victim to the antics of the charlatans.
“We commend Anambra State Police Command for improved security situation in the State but condemn the unprofessional conduct of some police officers, especially in Awka, who often delay, molest and extort motorists and other citizens on the road and urged the commissioner of police to check such ugly incidents which could erode the confidence and support of the public for the body.
“Congress also commend political parties for the smooth and peaceful conduct of primaries for electing their governorship flag bearers and enjoined them to continue in that trajectory in order to guarantee a peaceful and successful governorship poll in the state.”