NUJ Disowns Facebook Platform Operating as “Secret Reporter”

Press Statement_

​The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has received several complaints from members of the public, public officials, and journalists concerning alleged acts of blackmail, ethical violations, and unprofessional conduct attributed to a Facebook-based platform operating under the name “Secrets Reporter”.

​In view of these complaints and the need to protect the integrity and reputation of the journalism profession, the NUJ wishes to make its position clear as follows:

​The platform known as “Secrets Reporter” is not recognised by the NUJ. It is not registered with any State Council or Chapel of the Union and does not feature in the Union’s records of recognised or accredited media organisations.

​The identities of its promoters, publishers, and editorial managers are unknown to the Union. None of them has formally identified themselves to the NUJ National Secretariat or any of its recognised organs.

​The Union cannot vouch for its professional standing or journalistic conduct. Consequently, the NUJ cannot attest to its adherence to the Code of Ethics for Nigerian Journalists or established principles of responsible journalism.

​The NUJ strongly believes in press freedom and recognises the constitutional right of every Nigerian to freedom of expression. However, such freedom must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of the law.

​Journalism is a noble profession founded on truth, accuracy, fairness, balance, verification, and accountability. It must not be reduced to anonymity, blackmail, intimidation, sensationalism, or the abuse of media platforms to settle personal scores or extort individuals.

​Accordingly, the NUJ wishes to clarify that it has no institutional or professional jurisdiction over the said platform or its unidentified operators. Consequently, the Union is not in a position to entertain, investigate, or adjudicate complaints arising from the activities of the platform.

Members of the public who feel aggrieved by its activities are advised to seek redress through the appropriate law enforcement agencies and other relevant statutory authorities.

​The NUJ also calls on those behind “Secrets Reporter” to come forward, disclose their identities, and clarify their professional status. Anyone who claims to practise journalism should be prepared to uphold the ethical standards, professional responsibilities, and accountability mechanisms that define the profession.

​For the avoidance of doubt, the NUJ will not condone or shield any journalist found culpable of professional misconduct, irrespective of status or affiliation.

Equally, the Union will not allow unidentified individuals or platforms to falsely assume professional legitimacy or bring the journalism profession into disrepute through alleged unethical practices.

​The NUJ remains committed to defending press freedom, promoting responsible journalism, and protecting the integrity of the journalism profession in Nigeria.

Signed:

Tita Onyebuchi Nze,
Assistant National Secretary.