Kano NUJ Chapel issues threats Against Aggrieved Members

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The leadership of the Kano State Correspondents’ Chapel on Monday issued a statement that appeared to focus more on disciplining dissenting members than addressing the concerns that gave rise to allegations of victimization within the body.

The statement followed a report by Blazon News Nigeria titled “Kano NUJ Chapel Leadership Accused of Bias, Censorship,” in which some aggrieved members raised complaints against the Chapel’s leadership under its Chairman, Murtala Adewale.

Read the story here: Kano NUJ Chapel Leadership Accused of Bias, Censorship

In the strongly worded message to it’s members seen by this medium, the Executive Committee (EXCO) dismissed claims that some journalists were being sidelined from government assignments or targeted because of their perceived political affiliations.

Rather than announcing a transparent process to investigate the grievances raised, however, the leadership challenged the accusers to provide evidence and warned of sanctions against anyone found spreading falsehoods or engaging in acts capable of bringing the Chapel into disrepute.

Speaking on the matter, a legal practitioner, Barrister Kabiru Yusuf said the threat of disciplinary action could discourage members from speaking openly about perceived injustices within the Chapel.

According to him, grievances—whether proven or not—deserve to be heard and examined through an independent and transparent process rather than being met with warnings of punishment.

Yusuf argued that professional associations thrive on openness, accountability, and the willingness of leaders to engage constructively with dissatisfied members. While false accusations should not be tolerated, he said, leadership also has a responsibility to create an environment where members feel safe to express concerns without fear of retaliation.

Although the EXCO has categorically denied the allegations, Barrister Yusuf believes the leadership’s statement missed an opportunity to reassure aggrieved journalists by outlining concrete steps to investigate the claims and rebuild confidence within the Chapel.

He added that the challenge before the Chapel’s leadership is not only to defend its reputation but also to demonstrate that all members, including critics, will be treated fairly and that their concerns will be addressed in line with the principles of professional journalism and democratic engagement.

See the full statement below:

ATTENTION! ATTENTION!! ATTENTION!!!

RE: ALLEGATIONS AGAINST THE LEADERSHIP OF THE KANO STATE CORRESPONDENTS’ CHAPEL

Dear Esteemed Members,

The Executive Committee (EXCO) of the Kano State Correspondents’ Chapel has become aware of a set of allegations being circulated against the leadership of the Chapel, including claims that certain members were barred from attending government activities, blacklisted from assignments due to perceived political affiliations, and subjected to discrimination or victimization based on their views.

We consider these allegations serious and deeply disappointing, particularly because they seek to portray our Chapel as an institution that operates on bias, favoritism, or political considerations rather than professionalism, fairness, and collective interest.

The EXCO wishes to categorically state that it has never adopted any policy or taken any decision aimed at excluding, blacklisting, or witch-hunting any member on the basis of political affiliation, personal opinion, or professional disposition. The leadership of the Chapel remains committed to serving all members without prejudice.

In the interest of transparency and fairness, we challenge any member making or supporting these allegations to come forward with a single verifiable instance, directive, document, communication, or action that substantiates any of the claims being circulated. Allegations of this nature should not be based on rumours, assumptions, or personal grievances but on facts that can withstand scrutiny.

While every member has the right to raise concerns through established channels, the EXCO is concerned by attempts to tarnish the image of the Chapel and its leadership through unsubstantiated accusations. Such actions have the potential to undermine the unity, credibility, and professional standing of our collective body.

The EXCO is already putting proactive measures in place to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding these allegations and any related conduct. Members are hereby advised that anyone found deliberately spreading falsehoods, engaging in acts capable of bringing the Chapel into disrepute, or violating the constitution and ethical standards of the Chapel will be dealt with decisively in accordance with the provisions of our rules and regulations.

We urge all members to remain calm, responsible, and committed to the values of professionalism, mutual respect, and solidarity that have sustained this Chapel over the years.

The Kano State Correspondents’ Chapel belongs to all of us, and its integrity must be protected at all times.

Thank you.

_Signed_

Executive Committee (EXCO)

Kano State Correspondents’ Chapel.

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Kano NUJ Chapel issues threats against Aggrieved Members