The Katsina State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ has joined journalists nationwide in celebrating seven decades of unwavering commitment to truth, democracy, and press freedom.
In a statement issued today, the council reflected on the NUJ’s historic role in Nigeria’s independence struggle, its courageous stand against military rule, and its relentless fight for democratic governance.
“Journalists have braved blackmail, intimidation, unlawful arrests, and even death in the pursuit of truth,” the statement read, paying tribute to fallen heroes like Dele Giwa and others who sacrificed their lives for press freedom.
While acknowledging the relative press freedom enjoyed in Katsina, the NUJ recalled past injustices, including the arrests of Danjuma Muhammad in 2018 and El-Zaharadeen Umar in 2022, and the victimization of Mal Mansir Lawal Kaware in 2001.
Katsina was hailed as a stronghold of journalism, producing legendary figures like Isa Kaita, Musa Musawa, Mamman Daura, and Abubakar Imam, alongside media powerhouses like Daily Trust and People’s Daily, founded by Katsina-born journalists.
The council also commended Governor Dikko Radda for his administration’s support and pledged unwavering loyalty to NUJ President Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi’s leadership.
“As we mark this milestone, we reaffirm our dedication to fearless journalism and a free press,” the statement concluded.
Press Released Signed By Comrade Tukur Dan-Ali Hassan (FCAI), Chairman Katsina State Council