NUJ condemns Police naming of Plateau tribe as behind killing of commuters in Rukuba Jos

The Nigeria Union Journalists (NUJ) Plateau State Council has described as worrisome the Press statement issued by the Plateau State Police Command which named a tribe as being responsible for the attack and killing of 22 commuters in Jos on Saturday.

NUJ in a Press Statement signed and issued in Jos on Sunday by its chairman of NUJ Mr Paul Jatau and Secretary Mr Peter Amine said it is regrettable that a statement credited to a credible security outfit named a tribe as being responsible for the attack.

The NUJ said It is also worrisome that a religion was also identified as the victims of the attack.

“The Nigeria Union Journalists (NUJ) Plateau State Council condemns in strong terms the unfortunate incident that ocurred in Jos on Saturday where 22 commuters were confirmed killed with many others injured.

“The NUJ is deeply saddened by the incident which is capable of worsening the volatile security situation in Plateau State and Nigeria in general.

The Council urges 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 Council however, wishes to advice security agencies that in trying to discharge their responsibility of containing the situation and dousing the palpable tension, they should avoid statements that would further polarized the society, pitching a religion or an ethnic group against the other(s).

“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.

The Statement further said Journalists must avoid stories that are capable of inciting a section of the society against the other.

“We must bear in mind that nobody would be spared if the state and nation is plunged into anarchy, chaos or lawlessness.

“We must be professional, cautious and verify our stories before going to press.

The NUJ however sympathize with families of those who lost their loved ones. While praying for the repose of the soul of those killed, we pray for the fast recovery of those that were injured.