The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council on Saturday warned members to avoid the temptation of being used for blackmail and character assassination for undue favour from politicians.
The Council made the call in a communique issued at the end of its Congress meeting signed by the state NUJ Chairman and his Secretary, Dalhatu Safiyal-Magori and Muhammad Bello respectively.
“As the 2023 General Elections draw closer, members should remain apolitical and uphold the confidence of the people by maintaining objectivity, embrace all and act professionally.
“Members are therefore warned, that the union will not be there for any one that intentionally violates ethics for personal aggrandizement,” it said.
The congress also appealed on politicians in the country to ensure peaceful electioneering before, during and after the elections.
It further urged on the Federal and Sokoto state governments to device more means of addressing the devastating security challenges in the state and the country at large.
“Government should expedite action to tackle the challenge of rural-urban migration, increased child street begging as well as hike in the number of displaced persons forced by the aggravated insecurity in the country.
“Sokoto state government should, amongst other things, urgently establish a ministry or agency for refugees to help curtail the increased number of street-beggars in the state,” it added
On Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU) strike, the congress appealed to FG and ASUU to critically consider quick and amicable resolution.
“This is to allow for students’ return to classes in order to avoid their involvement in crimes, thereby increasing thecrime rate in the society,” it said.
The congress also called on eligible voters who have registered but were yet to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to do so in order to avoid being disenfranchised.
It appealed to the state government to evacuate refuse dumps within the Abu Dankure Meat and Vegetable market as well as fill up the potholes at all roundabouts within the metropolis
It also appreciated FG and Sokoto state governments as well as security agencies for their relentless efforts toward addressing security challenges across the state. (NAN)