The Nigeria Union Of Journalists, Lagos State Council has commiserated with Channels TV management and the family of the youth corps member, Precious Owolabi who was killed on Monday while on active duties.
The death of Owolabi occurred on Monday in Abuja while he was on duty covering the Islamic Movement Of Nigeria, IMN, Shi’ites’ clash with the Security agencies.
According to a statement from the union on Tuesday morning “NUJ Lagos council is deeply sad that the late Precious Owolabi paid the supreme price to his fatherland and the Journalism profession.
The union condemned in strong terms assault on and killing of Nigerian Journalist by any group and the inability of the state apparatus to protect Journalists on the line of duty.
“We appeal to the Nigerian state to have a critical look at threat to National Security by the IMN group and follow the path of rule of law on their demands as quickly as possible. It is instructive to avoid another potential National Security threat that is capable of metamorphosing into terrorism activities”.
The union noted with regret that similar situation snow balled into the emergence of Boko Haram which has taken its toll on Nigeria and some west African countries.
“We pray for the repose of the soul of our late colleagues and pray for his family to bear the irreparable loss. We also condole with NYSC and its management over the loss of a young promising Nigerian on active service to the Nation”.
The NUJ Lagos State Council called on Media organisations to ensure that Journalists sent to cover protests or conflicts henceforth are equipped with life vests and other protective head gears.
Packaged by Mayowa Owogbade
