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A female reporter from the government-owned Edo Broadcasting Service, EBS, Mrs. Juliet Enabulele-Asein, along with cameraman Bright Osifo, was reportedly assaulted by an aide to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Kelly Okungbowa, commonly known as Ebo Stone.
This incident took place at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, during an empowerment program for 250 individuals with physical disabilities.
The confrontation allegedly began when several non-beneficiaries tried to enter the hall and were being guided through a side entrance.
Okungbowa reportedly confronted the cameraman, accusing him of filming the scene.
When Enabulele-Asein attempted to clarify that the cameraman was not recording, he allegedly struck her on the shoulder in an attempt to slap her.
“I informed him that the cameraman was not recording and pointed out that he was working for the state government-owned station, but he disregarded me,” Enabulele-Asein stated.
The Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), through its Chairman Festus Alenkhe and Secretary Andy Egbon, condemned the alleged assault, calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of Okungbowa by the Nigeria Police and other security agencies.
The union characterized the act as an assault on press freedom, journalist safety, and the rights of media professionals to perform their duties without intimidation or violence.
“The NUJ will no longer tolerate attacks on journalists while they are fulfilling their responsibilities.
“We urge the public, especially public officials, to exercise restraint and respect the constitutional role of the media in promoting democracy and ensuring accountability,” the statement read.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the incident involving the EBS reporter?
The incident involved an assault on EBS reporter Mrs. Juliet Enabulele-Asein and cameraman Bright Osifo by Governor Okpebholo's aide, Kelly Okungbowa, during an empowerment program in Benin City.
What was the response from the Nigeria Union of Journalists?
The NUJ condemned the assault, calling for the arrest and prosecution of Okungbowa and emphasized that they will not tolerate attacks on journalists while performing their duties.
What did the NUJ statement emphasize regarding journalists and public officials?
The NUJ urged public officials to respect the media's role in democracy and accountability, emphasizing the need for restraint and respect towards journalists.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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