Kwara NUJ, ASKOMP berate attack on National Pilot Newspaper
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Association of Kwara Online Media Practitioners (ASKOMP) have condemned the Friday’s evening attack on National Pilot Newspaper complex at Asa Dam in Ilorin, the state capital.
A statement jointly issued by its Chairman, Mallam Umar Abdulwahab and Secretary, Deacon Tayo Ayanda, during the weekend, described the attack as uncivilsed act targeted on Free Press which will not allow democracy and good governave to thrive.
The Council also expressed shock over the wamton destruction of properties and attack on Government and private facilities by rampaging residents despite measures earlier put in place by the State Government, the State Command of Nigerian Police and Emir of Ilorin to avert such.
It however praised the state government for taking a proactive measures to contain the situation from degenerating further, urging journalists in the state to thread with caution while carrying out their legitimate duties.
Similarly, The Association of Kwara Online Media Practitioners via a statement signed by its Acting Chairman, Salihu Shola Taofeek, who also the Publisher of The Informant247, described the attackers as arsonists and common criminals, adding that they must be seen and addressed as such.
The statement questioned the rationale behind attack on journalists and media houses doing their legitimate profession of events and news reportage.
The body therefore implored the state government, the Kwara State Police Command and all relevant stakeholders to rise up to condemn this sinister move aimed at gagging the press and ensure perpetrators are brought to book in due cause.
ASKOMP, condemning the criminal looting of private businesses across the Ilorin metropolis late Friday till early Saturday, urged all relevant government agencies to rise up to their responsibility by ensuring the security of lives and properties of Kwarans at all times.
