Fifteen aggrieved members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Correspondents’ Chapel in Kano, have petitioned the Chapel’s leadership, demanding explanations over alleged financial misconduct and a breach of union procedures.
In a letter dated May 1, 2025, and addressed to the Chapel Secretary, the journalists raised concerns about what they described as a series of actions that undermine transparency, accountability, and adherence to NUJ’s constitutional provisions.
The petition, signed by Abdulmumin Murtala of Leadership newspaper on behalf of the group, centres on the alleged mismanagement of N5 million reportedly allocated by the Kano State Government for a special media assignment. The assignment involved travelling across the state’s local government areas to document achievements in the education sector. According to the petitioners, the funds remain unaccounted for.
Also highlighted was the repeated transfer of Chapel funds into the personal bank account of the Chairman—a move the members argue violates NUJ financial regulations and fosters mistrust.
“In the last six months, two members of the Chapel were unilaterally removed and denied their monthly stipends from the state government without a formal explanation. The whereabouts of these withheld allowances remain unknown,” the petition stated.
The aggrieved journalists also alleged favouritism in assigning official duties and described the Chapel’s leadership style as autocratic.
To verify the petition, SolaceBase contacted Abdulmumin Murtala, who confirmed he signed the letter on behalf of the 15 concerned members.
It was further gathered that the suspended members’ monthly stipends—reportedly N30,000 each—have gone unaccounted for since their removal nearly six months ago.
When contacted, the Chapel Chairman, Aminu Garko, acknowledged receipt of the petition and assured that the matter would be addressed. However, he declined to provide further details, stating that the issue is internal and would be resolved within the union.
Solacebase
