Fifteen members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel in Kano have petitioned the leadership of the union, demanding transparency over alleged financial irregularities and misconduct, including the mismanagement of N5 million allocated for a state government project.
In a petition dated May 1, 2025, addressed to the Chapel Secretary and sighted by WikkiTimes, the journalists accused the leadership of violating constitutional guidelines, fostering mistrust, and operating with opacity.
The letter, signed by Abdulmumin Murtala of Leadership Newspaper on behalf of the aggrieved members, highlighted unresolved discrepancies in the handling of funds and unilateral decisions by the Chapel Chairman, Aminu Garko.
The petition centered on a N5 million disbursement for a special assignment involving journalists documenting the Kano State Government’s education sector achievements across local governments. Members alleged the funds remain unaccounted for, with no clarity on expenditures or accountability reports.
Additionally, the Chairman was accused of routinely transferring Chapel funds into his personal bank account—a practice described as “a blatant breach of NUJ operational guidelines.”
Unilateral Suspensions, Withheld Allowances
The petitioners revealed that two members were “unilaterally removed” from the Chapel six months ago and denied their monthly N30,000 stipends from the state government. The allowances, totaling N360,000 for both journalists, have reportedly not been recovered or explained.
“The continuous withholding of these entitlements without due process or communication undermines the union’s integrity,” the petition stated.
Autocracy, Favoritism Alleged
Members further accused the leadership of autocratic practices and favoritism in assigning roles. They claimed opportunities for the government-sponsored project were selectively awarded to “preferred journalists,” sidelining others without justification.
When contacted, Chapel Chairman Aminu Garko confirmed receipt of the petition but declined detailed comments, calling it an “internal matter.”
“Appropriate action will be taken in line with the union’s protocols. We urge members to remain calm as we resolve this democratically,” Mr. Garko said.
Abdulmumin Murtala, who signed the petition, verified its authenticity, stressing that the 15 members seek “urgent reforms to restore accountability and constitutional adherence.”
The crisis highlights growing tensions within media unions over financial governance and leadership accountability, particularly as state governments increasingly engage journalists for special reporting projects.
Other members of the Chapel who spoke to WikkiTimes on condition of anonymity said the petition is plausible as Mr. Garko has become arrogant running the affairs of the union.
“The chairman has never used the official chapel bank account for transactions. He uses his personal account. And he called for a congress just once since 2023, it was after the petition that he called for another one yesterday,” the source told WikkiTimes.
