NUCJ Celebrates World Press Freedom Day 2021
The National Union of Campus Journalists (NUCJ) Nigeria joins the world to commemorate the
2021 World Press Freedom Day.
As the union of student journalists in Nigeria, one of our core mandates is to ensure that the freedom of the press – the right to report news or express opinions without censorship, thrives in our tertiary
institutions; even as we continue to promote the ethics and principles of journalism.
In recent times, student–journalists and press clubs have come under attacks from school managements, and such attempts at press censorship are fast becoming commonplace in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
We have also had cases of intimidation and brazen harassment of student–journalists, ranging from verbal and physical threats, suspension, rustication and expulsion, to the proscription of campus press outfits.
In February 2020, Adamawa State University banned the students' press club operating in the institution for allegedly
“posing a threat to the security
of other students on campus”.
The press club received a three month ban with effect from
January 27, 2020. But two
years after, the university
management has neither lifted
the ban nor made any plans to reinstate that press club.
Recently, a top university official at Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida University, Lapai (IBBUL) was
quoted saying he would scrap a local press outfit and destroy the future of a campus journalist.
NUCJ has also noticed a pattern with deliberate attempts by Student Union Government (SUG) in tertiary institutions to control student press outfits on campus. The union strongly frowns at these actions, as student press outfits are autonomous and exist independently, beyond any form of interference by the SUGs. It is worthy to note that student press outfits are independently registered under the Student Affairs Division at the institutions where they operate.
The union rejects all forms of attacks on campus press organizations and student journalists and other actions that may stifle free press on campus. At NUCJ, we shall continue to promote freedom of the press and protect the collective interests of campus journalists across Nigeria.
Today, just as always, we celebrate the efforts of journalists across the world who are working round the clock to safeguard justice, transparency and accountability. Even more, we appreciate student–journalists who despite the demands and rigours of academics, strive for improved systems and eradication of ills in our tertiary institutions and the larger society.
We appreciate your contributions towards nation–building and strengthening democracy.
Thank you for your service!
*Signed*
Samuel Ajala
NUCJ President
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