The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, has tendered an unreserved apology to members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, over his assault on a journalist covering the recent Abuja–Kaduna train derailment.
Opeifa’s apology followed widespread outrage after reports emerged that he verbally attacked Ladi Bala, a staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and member of the NUJ, during coverage of the incident.
Speaking at a press conference at the NUJ FCT secretariat in Abuja on Sunday, Opeifa admitted his conduct was unbecoming and accepted responsibility.
“I wish to offer my apology for the regrettable remarks I made, which were not only directed at a seasoned journalist but also reflected unfavourably on the NUJ FCT and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ),” he said.
“Acting in the heat of the moment under pressure, and in my attempt to ensure safety, I made certain unkind statements. For this, I take full responsibility, and I am sorry.”
His apology comes after the NUJ FCT, led by its Chairman, Grace Ike, condemned the “unwholesome treatment” of journalists and demanded a public apology.
Calling for calm among her members, Ike said the NUJ would continue to defend the rights of journalists to carry out their professional duties without intimidation.
The controversy stemmed from coverage of Tuesday’s train derailment at Jere, along the Abuja–Kaduna rail line, in which six passengers sustained injuries.
