By the Editor:
The Management of the Bauchi Radio Corporation (BRC) has condemned the alleged brutal assault on one of its staff members, Bashir Adamu, by a security personnel reportedly attached to the State Security Service (SSS).
The incident occurred during an official state function at the Yankari Game Reserve, where Adamu was carrying out his professional duties as a journalist attached to the Bauchi State Government House.
In a statement signed by the Managing Director of BRC, Umar Muhammad Shira, the management described the incident as “barbaric and unacceptable,” saying it constitutes a serious affront to press freedom, the dignity of the media profession and the fundamental human rights of journalists performing legitimate official assignments.
While acknowledging the responsibility of security agencies to protect public officials and maintain order at official functions, the corporation stressed that such duties must be carried out within the bounds of the law, professionalism and respect for fundamental human rights.
BRC said security responsibilities should never be used to justify intimidation, harassment or physical assault against journalists who are performing their legitimate professional duties.
The corporation therefore joined the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bauchi State Council, in calling for an immediate, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
It also called for the identification of the officer allegedly involved and appropriate disciplinary action if found culpable, in accordance with the rules and regulations governing the service.
According to the management, acts of intimidation, harassment and physical assault against journalists have no place in a democratic society, stressing that Nigeria’s democratic environment requires mutual respect and cooperation among security agencies, government institutions and the media.
The BRC management expressed solidarity with the affected journalist and assured him and other members of staff that the corporation would continue to defend their right to carry out their professional responsibilities without intimidation, harassment or unlawful interference.
It further appealed to relevant authorities to strengthen inter-agency coordination and ensure that security personnel are properly briefed on media access and the roles of journalists during official functions.
The corporation reaffirmed its commitment to press freedom, professional journalism, human dignity and democratic accountability, while urging all government institutions to uphold these principles.
