Jos Killing: Avoid Statements Pitching Groups Against Each Other – Plateau NUJ Cautions Security Agencies
The Nigeria Union Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council has advised security agencies that in trying to discharge their responsibility of containing the situation over the killing and dousing the palpable tension in Jos, they should avoid statements that would further polarized the society, pitching a religion or an ethnic group against the other(s).
This is as the NUJ condemned in strong terms, the unfortunate incident that occurred in Jos on Saturday where 22 commuters were confirmed killed with many others injured.
The Union in a statement jointly signed by its State Chairman, Comrade Paul Jatau and Secretary, Comrade Peter Amine expressed sadness over the incident which it noted is capable of worsening the volatile security situation in Plateau State and Nigeria in general.
The Council therefore urged security agencies to do their best to apprehend the perpetrators of the dastardly act and bring them to justice so as to serve as deterrent to anyone contemplating unleashing violence in the state.
The NUJ further said; “It is regrettable that a statement credited to a credible security outfit named a tribe as being responsible for the attack. It is also worrisome that a religion was also identified as the victims of the attack.
“Journalists on their part, must tow the path of caution, and exercise high level of professionalism in order not to worsen an already bad situation.
“Journalists must avoid stories that are capable of inciting a section of the society against the other,” it counseled.
The Plateau Council of the NUJ said the people must bear in mind that nobody would be spared if the state and nation is plunged into anarchy, chaos or lawlessness.
It therefore urged journalists in particular to be professional, cautious and verify their stories before going to press.
The NUJ sympathized with families of those who lost their loved ones just as it prayed for the repose of the soul of those killed and quick recovery of those that were injured.
