Ebonyi NUJ Dismisses Claims of Threat to Press Freedom

By Babatunji Wusu

• Union says journalists enjoy “one of the best environments” for press freedom in Nigeria
• Suspension of Legacy FM’s Acting GM deemed an internal employer decision
• Warns against false narratives and impostors posing as journalists

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State Council, has refuted claims that press freedom is under threat in the state, following the suspension of Mr. Godfrey Chikwere, Acting General Manager of Legacy FM, the state’s first private radio station.

In a statement on Monday, the State Chairman, Comrade Samson Nwafor, affirmed that Governor Francis Nwifuru has never interfered with journalists’ constitutional duties, adding that no journalist has been harassed, attacked, or molested under the current administration.

“The NUJ, Ebonyi State Council, has been drawn to the activities of some clout-chasing individuals spreading false narratives suggesting press freedom is under threat following Mr. Chikwere’s suspension by his employer,” the statement read. “Journalists in Ebonyi State are enjoying one of the best environments for press freedom in the country.”

The Council stressed that Chikwere’s suspension was an internal matter and unrelated to government interference, urging the public to disregard suggestions to the contrary.

Comrade Nwafor also emphasized the cordial relationship between the NUJ and the state government, warning “mischief makers” to stop meddling in union affairs. He reminded media practitioners to uphold professional ethics and avoid letting personal bias erode journalism’s credibility.

The NUJ further advised the public to be cautious of impostors posing as journalists without proper qualifications and reiterated its commitment to protecting press freedom while maintaining ethical standards in the state’s media space.