By Saidu Adamu
The Taraba State Government has come under intense criticism, following a sweeping condemnation by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), which accused the state of deliberately sidelining the press during major state functions.
In a strongly worded resolution passed during an emergency congress, the Chapel expressed outrage over the government’s failure to accredit its members for coverage of the high-profile Taraba State International Investment Summit (TARAVEST) and the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the state.
The resolution was signed by Mr. Charles Akpeji, who served as Chairman of the resolution drafting committee.
Describing the action as a calculated attempt to gag the press, the union unequivocally condemned what it labeled a blatant disregard for press freedom and transparency.
The Chapel subsequently announced an immediate and indefinite boycott of all Taraba State Government activities.
As part of its resolution, the union passed a vote of no confidence in the Taraba State Commissioner for Information, Zainab Usman Jalingo.
This followed a statement credited to her regarding the invitation of accredited journalists for a road walk—an event from which members of the Correspondents’ Chapel were excluded.
The union also reassured residents of Taraba State of its unwavering commitment to its watchdog role.
Furthermore, the resolution affirmed that journalists will continue to report on issues affecting citizens and will hold the government accountable—regardless of intimidation or exclusion. (vitalnewsngr.com)
