The Union stated that journalists should be given unhindered movement to enable them observe and report the level of compliance within the two local government areas under lock down.
The NUJ, in a statement signed by its Chairman and Secretary, Stanley Job Stanley and Ike Wigodo respectively, disclosed that the Union had agreed with the State Police Command to allow journalists move with their identity cards as appropriate authorisation during the lock down.
The NUJ said, although the Union enjoys good relationship with the security agencies in the state, the statement became imperative in view of the fears expressed by its members on the proviso contained in the press release by the state government.
The Rivers state government, while announcing a total lock down in Port Harcourt and Obio Akpor local government areas, had said that only those who render essential services and with appropriate authorisation would be allowed movement during the lock down.
The NUJ warned that it would not take it kindly with any security agency that violates the rights of its members on duty during the lock down.
The Union, however, urged its members who would be on duty during the period of the lock down to stay safe, wear face masks and adhere to the National Centre for Disease Control advisories on the Covid-19 pandemic as well as move with their identity cards.
