The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Yobe State Council, has come down hard on Punch Online over what it described as a fabricated and irresponsible report alleging an attack in Mafa community, Yobe State.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday and co-signed by Comrade Rajab Mohammed Ismail, Chairman, and Alhassan Mamudo, Secretary of the NUJ Yobe Council, the union dismissed the report as “a blatant lie” and expressed shock at the recklessness of the publication.
“There was no such attack, and we are shocked by the irresponsibility displayed in publishing such falsehood. The dangers of spreading unverified reports can have far-reaching consequences, including unnecessary panic and misinformation,” the statement read.
The NUJ further disclosed that its ethics and disciplinary committee has been directed to invite the reporter, Mr Kagana Amshi, for investigation over the controversial story.
Reaffirming its commitment to truth and accuracy, the union warned against the dangers of sensational reporting and urged journalists to uphold the principles of responsible journalism by verifying information before going to press.
The statement added: “We call on Punch Online to retract the false report and issue a formal apology. We also urge the public to be cautious of such malicious publications and rely only on verified sources of information.”
The NUJ Yobe Council stressed that it stands firmly for truth, professionalism and accountability in journalism.
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