By Sylvanus Viashima, Jalingo
The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Taraba State Council has commended the Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency Mr Jafa’aru Yakubu for extending a hand of fellowship to the union by supporting the fixing of the Union bus.
In a letter of commendation to the lawmaker, the Chairman of the Council Mr Mathew Jen note that Yakubu is the first Legislator in the State to reach out to the Union in this current dispensation.
Jen, who was represented by the Vice Chairman Mr Adamu Arso said that he was overwhelmed with the kind gesture and called on other people to partner with the union for the development of the State.
“The union is very grateful for your great support which has helped to put our Union bus on the road again after it was grounded for months. You learnt of the situation and willingly reached out to us to enable us fix it. The support is sincerely appreciated but what we value most is the gesture and extension of friendship.
“Journalists are often erroneously looked upon as enemies to politicians. Nothing can be further from truth than this. As a matter of fact, most politicians attain their heights because of the work of Journalists. Unfortunately they don’t only turn their back on the journalists but try to paint them as bad people.
“As the Forth estate of the realm, we are under obligation to hold public office holders to account. Our duty is first of all to the public and we just can not help to do the needful. For the NUJ in Taraba, I can assure you of our unwavering partnership and support. We are aware of your giants strides in your Constituency. We encourage you to keep the good work up” he said.
In his response, the federal lawmaker said that he has a profound regards for journalists and would continue to partner with the union in anyway possible for the welfare of her members.
“The role journalists play in the society is so strategic and should not be taken for granted. Personally, I have profound regards for journalists. I am aware of the huge risks you take on a daily basis to keep the people abreast of happenings in the society.
“I want to assure you that I will always do my best to assist in anyway possible. As a Legislator, I have a duty to represent my Constituency and the state as best as I can. This is a huge task especially now that things are generally very tough with everyone. Notwithstanding, we would continue to strive for more. In the days to come, I will be inviting you some of my projects across the Constituency” he said.