The Akwa Ibom State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for immediate and stronger security measures in Eket Local Government Area on scrap metal dealers.
In a communiqué issued after its June congress in Uyo, the union expressed deep worry over growing security concerns, specifically highlighting a noticeable surge in potential risk factors within the area.
Central to the union’s concerns is the increasing influx of non-indigenous commercial motorcycle operators, alongside the unregulated activities of scrap metal dealers and scavengers.
The NUJ noted that the rapid rise in the number of people relocating to Eket to engage in these trades makes it absolutely necessary for security agencies to strengthen their profiling, documentation, and monitoring of residents.
While explicitly acknowledging the constitutional right of all Nigerians to live and work in any part of the country, the NUJ maintained that improved monitoring is essential to prevent security breaches and protect public safety.
To address this, the congress called for stricter statewide regulation of scrap metal dealers. They urged security and regulatory bodies, including the Nigeria Immigration Service, to step up surveillance and verification to ensure total compliance with the law.
Beyond local surveillance, the journalists also turned their attention to the state’s justice system, expressing grave concern over the persistent congestion in correctional centres.
The union particularly highlighted the high number of awaiting-trial inmates currently held at the Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre, describing the situation as a critical issue requiring urgent intervention.
Consequently, the NUJ urged the judiciary and other key stakeholders within the criminal justice system to fast-track the hearing of pending cases to effectively decongest custodial facilities and strengthen the administration of justice.
The resolutions were officially signed by the Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee, Blessing Isonguyo; Committee Secretary, Charles Bassey Silas; Committee Member, Unyime Bassey; NUJ State Secretary, Nsikak Esenowo; and the State Chairman, Nsibiet John.
