Kano Govt Vs Journalists: KCSF Urges Parties to Deploy Peaceful Resolution Approaches
The Kano Civil Society Forum (KCSF) has called on the Correspondent Chapel of the Kano State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), and Kano State Government to deploy alternative means of dispute resolution in addressing their grievances.
A statement signed by the Publicity Secretary-Elect, Salisu Gambo Dettol, and made available to newsmen noted that the two institutions are critical for the development of Kano State and thus need not to engage in fracas.
He further called on the State government to work diligently in addressing the concern of the journalists and guarantee a space for them where they can execute their functions freely as ‘watchdog of the societ’ without fear of intimidation or attack. The statement further called on the members of the correspondent chapel to resort to peaceful means throughout the entire process.
Recall that the newly executive members of the KCSF were elected over the weekend after the forum spent 11 years under the leadership of caretaker committee led by Ibrahim Waiya who was defeated in the just concluded election by Mohammed Bello, the Chief Executive Officer CEO of the African Center for Innovative Research and Development, AFRI-CIRD.
The statement reads in full below:
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“The Kano Civil Society Forum (KCSF) is deeply concerned about the ongoing dispute between the Kano State Government and the Correspondent Chapel of the Kano State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ). We believe that a free and independent press is essential for a healthy democracy and are committed to finding a peaceful resolution to this issue.
“We have been closely following the developments and understand the frustrations of the journalists. The developments are worrisome, especially at a time like this when both party’s services cannot be undermined.
We believe that open dialogue and mutual understanding are the keys to resolving this conflict. We call upon both parties to engage in constructive discussions and find a way forward that respects the rights and concerns of all stakeholders.
“We urge the Kano State Government to take immediate steps to address the grievances of the journalists and ensure that they can perform their duties without fear of repercussions.
“We also call upon the journalists to maintain a professional and peaceful approach throughout this process. Both sides must work together to find a solution that upholds the principles of press freedom and good governance.
“The KCSF is confident that with goodwill and a commitment to dialogue, this dispute can be resolved in a manner that benefits the people of Kano State and strengthens the relationship between the government and the media.”
Salisu Gambo Dettol Publicity Secretary-Elect
