The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has said it has no connection with a Facebook-based platform called “Secrets Reporter,” which has been accused of blackmail and unprofessional conduct, and has advised aggrieved persons to seek redress from law enforcement agencies.
In a statement signed by its Assistant National Secretary, Tita Onyebuchi Nze, the Union said it had received several complaints from members of the public, public officials and journalists about alleged blackmail, ethical violations and unprofessional conduct linked to the platform.
It said it was clarifying its position to protect the integrity and reputation of the journalism profession.
The NUJ said “Secrets Reporter” is not recognised by the Union, is not registered with any State Council or Chapel, and does not appear in its records of recognised or accredited media organisations.
It added that the identities of the platform’s promoters, publishers and editorial managers are unknown to the Union, and that none of them has formally identified themselves to the NUJ National Secretariat or any of its recognised organs.
The Union therefore said it cannot vouch for the platform’s professional standing or journalistic conduct or attest to its adherence to the Code of Ethics for Nigerian Journalists.
The NUJ said it strongly believes in press freedom and recognises every Nigerian’s constitutional right to freedom of expression but stressed that such freedom must be exercised responsibly and within the law.
“Journalism is a noble profession founded on truth, accuracy, fairness, balance, verification and accountability,” the Union said, adding that it must not be reduced to anonymity, blackmail, intimidation, sensationalism, or the abuse of media platforms to settle personal scores or extort individuals.
Because it has no institutional or professional jurisdiction over the platform or its unidentified operators, the Union said it is not in a position to entertain, investigate or adjudicate complaints arising from their activities. Members of the public who feel aggrieved were advised to approach the appropriate law enforcement agencies and other statutory authorities.
The NUJ also called on those behind “Secrets Reporter” to come forward, disclose their identities and clarify their professional status, saying anyone who claims to practise journalism should be ready to uphold the ethical standards, responsibilities and accountability mechanisms that define the profession.
The Union said it will not condone or shield any journalist found culpable of professional misconduct, irrespective of status or affiliation.
It added that it will not allow unidentified individuals or platforms to falsely assume professional legitimacy or bring the profession into disrepute through alleged unethical practices.
The NUJ said it remains committed to defending press freedom, promoting responsible journalism and protecting the integrity of the journalism profession in Nigeria.
