By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has distanced itself from a Facebook-based platform operating under the name “Secrets Reporter”, saying it is neither recognised nor registered with any of its state councils or chapels.
The Union’s position follows complaints from members of the public, government officials and journalists over alleged blackmail, ethical violations and unprofessional conduct attributed to the platform.
In a press statement signed by the Assistant National Secretary, Tita Onyebuchi Nze, the NUJ said the platform does not feature in its records of recognised or accredited media organisations.
The Union also disclosed that the identities of the platform’s promoters, publishers and editorial managers remain unknown, noting that none of them has formally identified themselves to its National Secretariat or any recognised organ.
Consequently, the NUJ said it could not vouch for the platform’s professional standing or attest to its compliance with the Code of Ethics for Nigerian Journalists.
While reaffirming its commitment to press freedom and the constitutional right to freedom of expression, the Union stressed that such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the law.
It maintained that journalism must be guided by truth, accuracy, fairness, balance, verification and accountability, warning against the use of media platforms for alleged blackmail, intimidation, sensationalism, extortion or settling personal disputes.
The NUJ further clarified that it has no institutional or professional jurisdiction over the platform or its unidentified operators and would therefore not entertain, investigate or adjudicate complaints arising from its activities.
Members of the public who feel aggrieved by the platform’s activities were advised to seek redress through appropriate law enforcement agencies and other relevant statutory authorities.
The Union also challenged those behind “Secrets Reporter” to publicly disclose their identities and clarify their professional status, stressing that anyone claiming to practise journalism must be willing to uphold the ethical standards and accountability requirements of the profession.
The statement further warned that the NUJ would not shield any journalist found guilty of professional misconduct, regardless of their status or affiliation.
It added that unidentified individuals and platforms would not be allowed to falsely claim professional legitimacy or damage the reputation of journalism through alleged unethical practices.
The Union reiterated its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting responsible journalism and protecting the integrity of the profession in Nigeria.
Source: Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
Statement signed by: Tita Onyebuchi Nze, Assistant National Secretary.
