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ATTACK ON JOURNALIST: Veteran/Activist Moji Makanjuola Blows Hot

PRESS STATEMENT

I have been following the conversation and actions associated with the unfortunate and regrettable incident involving the unprofessional conduct of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation.

I salute the courageous voices that have spoken up and taken decisive action in condemning this unacceptable behavior by a senior government officer. I am particularly encouraged to see women rallying together against workplace gender-based violence. This incident once again exposes the many forms of violence women are subjected to in workplaces, and more disturbingly, the professional harassment and intimidation that journalists continue to endure in the course of carrying out their duties.

For too long, journalists have faced undue attacks for speaking truth and informing the public. This latest assault is one too many. The injury inflicted on our sister, Comrade Ladi Bala—a reputable journalist, immediate past President of NAWOJ, and a respected voice in the media space—is not only a personal affront but also a direct attack on media freedom in Nigeria. I join my voice with others to strongly condemn this shameful act.

It is even more troubling that such an incident was compounded by the denigration of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA)—a government institution of repute that has shaped the media ecosystem within and beyond Nigeria and produced some of the finest veteran professionals. Such conduct by an appointed public officer is disgraceful and wholly unacceptable.

While I acknowledge that the Managing Director has expressed willingness to issue an apology through a press briefing with the FCT NUJ, I must stress that the first and most important step must be directed to the prime victim—Comrade Ladi Bala. She must be personally pacified and openly apologized to, as she is the one left to live with the trauma of this uncouth act. Furthermore, the Managing Director should tender a formal and unreserved apology to the Nigerian Television Authority, and thereafter to the professional bodies whose members he has undermined.

However, apologies alone are not enough. This matter should trigger a full investigation, with clear measures put in place to prevent a recurrence. Workplace gender-based violence must be met with accountability, and senior public officers must be held to the highest ethical standards. This should include the enforcement of workplace codes of conduct, and mandatory training for leaders on gender sensitivity and professional ethics.

As professionals, we must collectively ensure that our workspaces remain safe, dignified, and free from violence, intimidation, or harassment. We must also defend press freedom, which remains the bedrock of our democracy.

Together, let us continue to defend and protect the sanctity of our profession. And let it be known: we will continue to monitor this matter until justice, accountability, and healing are achieved.

Chief Mrs Moji Makanjuola,

Veteran Journalist