The Oyo State Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Broadcasting Corporation Oyo State (BCOS) has condemned an attack on the news crew that monitoring governorship and House of Assembly elections in Lagos State on Saturday.
The crew member who was attacked a reporter, Lekan Shobowale, Fólórunsó Abiala, a cameraman and the driver, Ope Adegoke; with their equipment destroyed, the attack was led by a woman in the Onigbongbo area of the state.
In a statement on Sunday, the BCOS NUJ Chairperson, Dupe Fehintola, and Secretary, Olamiposi Ishola, described the assault as misdirected.
The union said the crew was carrying out its responsibility of monitoring and covering the election when the hoodlums pounced on the members.
The BCOS NUJ wondered how its members would be the target of attacks, adding that it was obvious the thugs had something to hide during the election which was supposed to be a transparent and open exercise.
While calling on INEC, the Lagos State Government and the police to do a thorough investigation into the incident with a view to preventing a recurrence, the BCOS NUJ said its members will continue to carry out their surveillance role to restore values and standards in all areas and sectors.
It, however, commended some good Samaritans and security operatives who quickly rescued the team and helped them to a safe distance.
cc: Premium Times Ng
