Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, has decried the unprofessional attitudes of some journalists whom as a result of their selfish interests have thrown the watchdog responsibility of the media into the dustbin over union elections.
This is contained in a communique by Chairman, MMPN, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi at the end of the monthly meeting of the Association in Ibadan hosted by Oyo State Ministry of Information.
The association while reviewing recent happenings in journalism profession in the state, advised media professionals to uphold the responsibility of being the watchdog of the society by avoiding practices that could lead to derailment from its journalistic ethos.
“The charade that led to the NUJ National election, the brouhaha that characterized NUJ, Oyo State Correspondent Chapel election and the recent State NAWOJ election where 2 factions are claiming leadership of the union are show of shame which have soiled the watchdog responsibility of the media as well as its role model functions”
The Muslim pen professionals equally appealed to the federal government to take proactive step towards averting looming industrial action planned to take place in January, 2022 by judicial workers ” as the strike will affect quick dispensation of justice in the country”.
The association enjoins the federal government not to remove oil subsidy as such move will lead to increase in prices of fuel and other essential commodities thereby inflicting more sufferings on majority of the Nigerian masses.
It appeals to the committee set up by the federal government on fuel subsidy to advise the government to look for other options such as reduction in the cost of governance at all levels by 70 percent.
“The reduction in the cost of governance will help to save more money as the Association believes that the cost of governance in the country is too high compared to the developed world”.
MMPN similarly urges the federal government to take proactive measures in combating the new COVID-19 variant, dubbed Omicron, especially as festive period is fast approaching with people traveling en-mass across the country.
The Association equally called on federal government to look into the issue of molestation of female Muslims students in public higher institutions of learning so as to allow Muslims practice their religious belief.
“MMPN warns civil and public servants against being overzealous in implementing government circulars or taking steps that could lead to denial or infringement on Muslims fundamental human rights”.
The Association commends Special Assistant to Oyo State Governor on Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Abdurasheed Abdulazeez for prompt response and amicable resolutions to issues pertaining to Islam and at the same time lauds Engr. Seyi Makinde for fulfilling his promise of fairness in the appointment of commissioners.
MMPN also congratulates the newly installed Chief Imam of Ogbomoso land,
and admonishes other zones in the state to emulate such method of choosing people with intimidating credentials into the exalted position.
