Attack on journalist: You behaved like a gangster, Nigeria Union of Journalists tells Fani-Kayode

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Tuesday condemned the verbal attack on Daily Trust Newspapers reporter, Eyo Charles by former Minister of Aviation, Femi Kani-Kayode, describing his (Fani-Kayode) conduct as “gangster-like”.

Penpushing reports that, the union in a statement by its National President, Chris Isiguzo pointed out that the reporter was only asking “a simple question”, emphasizing that it was proper for media to hold him (Fani-Kayodede) to account for his actions and decisions.

“For him to have embarked on assessment of projects in some states, even though we are yet to be told under what platform, he is doing so, it is proper for the media to hold him to account for his actions and decisions,” Isiguzo said.

Penpushing further reports that, the statement declared that the former minister’s reaction to the reporter’s question was against “simple decorum and civility” and, therefore, “unacceptable, dishonourable and reprehensible”.

The union demanded a retraction from the former Minister, stressing that “by delving into politics and holding political office, Fani Kayode is very conversant with the watchdog role of the media’.

“We are more shocked that the same Kayode who had in recent times, used his social media handles to call leaders to account is at the same time attacking a journalist for a simple demand for him to unmask those behind his nationwide tour.

“He had already visited six states. This is indeed, terribly disappointing. By denigrating the journalist, Fani Kayode has exposed himself the more as an intolerant and unstable person who will not want his activities closely scrutinised by the media”, the statement said