By Amina Samuel, Kaduna
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Zone A stands in solidarity with the Kaduna State Council of the NUJ and all journalists within the zone in light of the recent abduction of two journalists by bandits.
The journalists, who work for The Nation Newspaper and Blueprint Newspaper, were taken from their homes in the Danhono area of Kaduna metropolis, along with their families.
In a statement issued by the NUJ ZONE A secretary, Abdulrazak Bello Kaura, it is emphasized that journalists play a vital role in reporting on local events without any bias or involvement in political or group conflicts. These journalists are innocent individuals and are not affiliated with any rival groups. As such, the government and security agencies are urged to prioritize their prompt and safe rescue, along with the rescue of their families.
While acknowledging and appreciating the ongoing efforts of security agencies to restore peace in the region, it is urged that the rescue of our colleagues be given the highest priority. The abduction of journalists not only poses a severe injustice to the individuals and their families, but also represents a threat to press freedom and the safety of journalists across the country.
Furthermore, the Vice President of NUJ Zone A, Malam Muhammad Tukur Umar, has directed the expression of the deepest sympathy of the Union to the NUJ Kaduna Council, its members, and all journalists throughout Nigeria in light of this unfortunate incident.
In light of the situation, all journalists within our zone are urged to remain calm, as the leadership of NUJ at the national, zonal, and state council levels are actively collaborating with security agencies and other relevant authorities to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted journalists.PDP Stakeholders Embrace Two-Tenure System For Z/Kataf LG Chairmen
By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
In a move that reflects the evolving needs of the community, a group known as the ‘Six Wards Stakeholders’ has unanimously decided to adopt a two-tenure system for the position of elected Council Chairman.
This decision marks a departure from the long-standing tradition of a one tenure system.
The press statement, signed by prominent members such as Geoffrey Francis Zamandabo, Kyauta John, Alfred Felix Tokan, and others, highlights the deliberations that took place during a meeting at the official residence of the Local Government Council Vice Chairman in Goran Sagwaza.
The meeting aimed to review the request from Zonkwa Constituency (5 wards) regarding the two-term tenure for the Local Government Chairman.
After careful consideration and a thorough examination of the current one tenure system agreement, the stakeholders have decided to inform the party (PDP), electorates, and the general public of their unanimous acceptance and support for the two tenure system, starting with Zonkwa Constituency.
The stakeholders believe that this decision is not only democratic but also constitutional. They are confident that it will provide the Council Chairmen with the necessary time and opportunity to effectively implement their programs and projects.
The collective agreement reached within the stipulated time frame demonstrates the unity and commitment of the stakeholders towards the progress and development of the local government.