By Princess Simon (Bureau Chief North Central,in Minna)
Madalla market situated along the Abuja-Zuba-Kaduna high way, near Zuma rock, Suleja Local Government Area, will soon be relocated to a safer location to end gridlocks as well as the hazards on the people patronizing the weekly market.
Journalists have been challenged to always clarify rumours or speculations about policies and programmes of government from constituted authorities before publishing to avoid setting the government against the governed thereby creating avoidable tension and acrimony.
Niger state Governor-elect, Hon. Umar Mohammed Bago disclosed this yesterday when he played host to members of the Correspondent Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Niger state Council at the Presidential lodge, Minna.
Besides causing gridlock, Bago argued that continued existence of the market along the ever busy road poses serious threats to lives and properties of people that patronize it not only from Suleja but from neighbouring states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
Bago who encouraged journalists to always verify rumours or speculations concerning his administration to avoid creating friction between the government and the governed, promised to operate an open door policy and also ready to welcome constructive criticisms.
“You are welcomed to a new Niger state. I want to thank you the media for doing your best in your reports and support. I want to assure you that we will partner with you in areas of common interests of the Correspondents Chapel”.
The Governor-elect said, “We would welcome constructive criticisms. Our doors are open to all, please keep us abreast of issues and happenings in the state. Do try and verify information you hear about us. Do not be judgemental but also listen to us before you go to press”.
Against the backdrop of rumour that plans to relocate the market was to get at a particular group or tribe, Bago who however said efforts would be made not to infringe on the rights of anyone, said the government is more concerned on the safety of citizens than whatever impressions people may have.
Moving the market to safer place will be one of the first assignment of the in-coming administration, adding however that, “We will not impede on fundamental human rights of anyone during the exercise. We will involve the media especially the Correspondents Chapel will come with us the day we will be moving Madalla market to safer place”.
Chairman of Correspondents’ Chapel, NUJ Niger state council, Mustafa Bina, had earlier assured the Governor-elect of the preparedness of the Chapel to partner with the in-coming administration in the state on areas of common interests. NNL.
