Ekiti: NUJ launches war against fake journalists, vows to rid state of impersonators

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Ekiti State Council, has launched a campaign against quacks impersonating professional journalists in the state. The anti-quackery drive aims to clean up the media industry, safeguard journalism's integrity, and prevent the public from falling prey to fraudsters who misuse the union's identity.

NUJ Chairman, Comrade Kayode Babatuyi, revealed that the initiative has uncovered a surge in individuals posing as journalists using only smartphones and social media accounts, without possessing the necessary professional qualifications. Babatuyi emphasized that merely owning a smartphone or maintaining a social media presence does not confer journalistic status.

The council's Anti-Quackery Committee is targeting two primary groups: the general public and people who masquerade as journalists. Abiodun Olofe, chairman of the committee, urged the public to exercise caution when interacting with self-proclaimed journalists, warning them that these impostors can disseminate misinformation and tarnish the reputation of genuine media professionals.

Olofe also introduced official identification stickers to help distinguish legitimate journalists from impostors. The council is committed to prosecuting those found guilty of illegal activities, underscoring that the campaign is an ongoing effort, not a one-time event.