Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall Chairman Tenders Apology to the Union of Campus Journalists
Robiat Oladele
The Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall Chairman, University of Ibadan, Fabiyi Oluwadamilare Caleb (Fadaca), has issued an apology to the Union of Campus Journalists and its members.
The apology followed the controversy surrounding the removal of UCJ members from the hall’s WhatsApp group, “Issues Affecting Zik Hall,” and a statement made by Fabiyi regarding the future accommodation prospects of the Zik Hall press members.
The incident, which occurred during the recently concluded Students’ Union elections, sparked controversy among campus journalists and students of the hall. Fabiyi’s decision to remove UCJ members from the WhatsApp group was seen as an attempt to stifle press freedom and limit the ability of campus journalists to report on important issues affecting the university community.
In the apology statement addressed to the UCJ Editor-in-Chief, AFAS Press Editor-in-Chief and other editors, Fabiyi acknowledged his actions were wrong and apologized for any harm caused. He explained that the removal of UCJ members from the group was a misguided attempt to maintain the group’s privacy, following a publication by the press that was deemed internal and sensitive.
“Firstly, I sincerely apologize for removing members of the University of Ibadan Campus Journalists (UCJ) from the “Issues Affecting Zik Hall” group, irrespective of the provocation that led to it. Additionally, I deeply regret the statement I made regarding the press and accommodation,” the statement reads.
Fabiyi also retracted his statement regarding the press and accommodation, describing it as an “angry remark made in the heat of the moment.”
The Hall Chairman expressed his respect for the UCJ and its mission, praising their dedication to upholding the truth and commitment to objectivity.
“I extend my deepest appreciation to the campus journalists for their unwavering dedication to upholding the truth. I believe in your mission and your commitment to objectivity,” he added.
