By: Mustapha Gambo Muhammad
The Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, has urged journalists to uphold professional conduct and avoid sensationalism, in accordance with established ethical standards.
The Emir of Kano made the assertion during a courtesy visit to the palace by Comrade Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi, Chairman of the Kano Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), who was accompanied by other executive members.
The Emir Sanusi noted that journalism is an ethical and noble profession, playing a vital role in promoting good governance for the people.
However, he lamented that the journalism profession is increasingly being undermined by quackery and mediocrity. “It is sad to see anyone with a smartphone claiming to be a journalist, posting whatever they wish without regard for the ethical standards of the profession,” he said.
He urged union leaders to take decisive action to sanitize the profession.
“Your profession contributes significantly to nation-building and is one of the most respected fields. Yet, the activities of quacks are posing serious challenges,” he added.
He lauded the Union Leaders for the visit and the journalists’ efforts in portraying the good image of the Kano Emirate.
Earlier in his speech, the Chairman of the Council, Comrade Suleiman Abdullahi Dederi, stated that the Kano NUJ Executives were at the Palace to introduce themselves following their recent election.
He noted that under his leadership, the Union had undertaken a series of initiatives aimed at promoting journalism in Kano.
Comrade Dederi further revealed that the Union is constructing an eight-bed clinic within the Press Center as part of its corporate social responsibility to neighboring communities, with the goal of strengthening the healthcare sector in the state.
