New Kogi State, an advocacy group has condemned the hosting right granted Kogi State by Nigeria National Merit Award for Media Professionals, saying the award is now for the highest bidder.
A statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the new body, Israel Ibileye and sent to CAPITAL POST on Saturday, the group passed a vote of no confidence on the media persons that dragged the all important occasion to Kogi state at this critical time.
He cited insecurity, poverty and maladministration on the part of leadership of the State under Governor Yahaya Bello, as responsible for all myriads of problems in Kogi State.
Ibileye asked the NNMA and the high profile media professionals to withdraw Kogi state hosting right and allow Kwara state the hosting right, as Kogi state does not deserve such a unique programme.
He wondered why the “who is who” in the media industry is closing their eyes towards bad leadership in Kogi State, and decided to glorify anti people’s policies of Kogi state government, despite being the watchdog of the society.
He described the process of selection of Kogi State from the North Central as shoddy, and for financial benefits, saying ethnic politics and champions in the media Industry are all out to give credence to the inhuman administration of Kogi Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
The group noted that the NNMA and some bodies in similarity have turned the State governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello into their ‘ATM’, such that they no longer stick to ethics and values, but what they could be offered.
The group maintained that it is unfortunate what the media Industry is becoming in Nigeria, having thrown away hardwork, merit and distinct public service in Nigeria.
He appealed to NMMA to move this year’s programme to Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, with a leader that had demonstrated the spirit of good leadership in the current dispensation.
“The negative consequences of giving Kogi State the hosting right will be a lasting dent on the hard earned image of the NNMA in recent time.”
“Kogi State does not deserve to host this program considering all variables.” He said.
