Press Freedom Under Attack: Edo Journalist Assaulted in Benin, NUJ Vows No Tolerance for Violence



​Media's Constitutional Role Threatened as EBS Reporter Juliet Asein is Manhandled by Kelly Okungbowa
-​By Ruben Mario Brodrick

​Benin City, Edo State – 
​The Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has vehemently denounced the physical assault perpetrated against Juliet Enabulele Asein, a respected reporter with the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS). 

The incident, which took place at a public gathering in Benin City earlier today, involved Kelly Okungbowa (Ebo Stone), who allegedly assaulted and manhandled Ms. Asein while she was on assignment.

​The Edo NUJ's leadership in a statement signed by the Chairman, NUJ, Edo State Council, Dr Festus Alenkhe, and the Secretary, NUJ, Edo State Council, Comrade Andy Egbon, unequivocally condemns the action, labeling it a contemptuous disregard for the rule of law and an unprovoked attack on the constitutional duty of the media. 

They said such violence not only endangers the safety of journalists but also represents a severe attempt to stifle the freedom of the press.

​A Zero-Tolerance Stance:
​The Union has adopted a firm, zero-tolerance position, warning that any future attacks on journalists performing their professional duties will be met with full legal and professional resistance. 

"The NUJ reminds all citizens, especially those holding public influence, of the media’s indispensable role in strengthening democracy and promoting accountability and urges them to conduct themselves with the requisite restraint and respect," the statement however added.

​The NUJ emphatically calls upon the Nigeria Police and other security outfits to act swiftly and decisively. The union demands the immediate apprehension and thorough investigation of Kelly Okungbowa to ensure the perpetrator of this unwarranted violence is held accountable under the law.

​

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