The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Nasarawa State has announced a partnership with the Police Command to crack down on impostors posing as journalists, a trend that has damaged the image of the profession and exploited unsuspecting citizens.
At a meeting in Lafia on Friday, NUJ Chairman, Salihu Mohammed-Alkali, introduced members of the Anti-Quackery Enforcement Committee to Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro-Mohammed. He stressed that the era of fake journalists using press stickers or NUJ tags to gain undue access was over, warning that offenders would be swiftly reported to security agencies.
“When you see them at public events or on the roads, do not hesitate to report them to the nearest police station for prompt action. We must cleanse the profession and will not allow anyone to damage our good image,” Mohammed-Alkali declared.
He expressed appreciation to the police and other security agencies for their role in maintaining peace across the state, assuring that journalists would support security efforts through intelligence sharing.
Chris Nyamtu, Chairman of the Anti-Quackery Enforcement Committee, pledged that the team would carry out its assignment with transparency and integrity.
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Responding, Commissioner Jauro-Mohammed welcomed the collaboration, describing journalists as vital partners in crime prevention and public sensitization. He said the partnership would improve information flow and boost community policing.
“Our commitment to you is strong because you are essential in the fight against crime and insecurity, ensuring that the state remains safe,” the Commissioner said. He also highlighted the achievements of the Command in the past eight months, including arrests of criminals and recovery of stolen property, while vowing not to relent until crime is completely stamped out.
The police boss urged residents to continue supplying actionable information to security agencies, assuring them that such cooperation would help foil crimes before they occur.
This new alliance between the NUJ and the police is expected to restore credibility to journalism in Nasarawa while tightening the noose on impostors who exploit the profession for selfish gain.
