Abdulkadir Sofiullahi Reports
The News Digest Press, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto has on Sunday, 3rd March, suspended Yasir Aladodo, the Social Media Manager 1, over his alleged involvement in political activities.
The suspension, effective immediately, prohibits Aladodo from engaging in any activity of the board until March 15th, to appear before the panel and address the allegation regarding his participation in political affairs.
Aladodo’s membership was suspended for holding a position in the just concluded Ilorin Emirate Students Union National HeadQuarters, a move that seems incompatible with the ethical standard of journalism and with Section Two Article Three of the board code of conduct.
According to the suspension letter signed by Abdullateef Abdullahi, the Editor-In-Chief, and co-signed by Meikudi Ashiat, Deputy-Editor-In-Chief, any member who declares his intention to run for a position in student politics shall have his membership forfeited.
This decision aims to maintain the highest ethical standards in journalism and ensure that all members adhere to the principles of impartiality and professionalism.
The letter reads in part: “ It is with regret that we must inform you of your suspension from your position as social media manager 1 at The New Digest Press, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. This decision is by the board code of conduct, specifically Section Two, Article Three which states that ”any member shall have his membership fortified if he has declared his intention to run any position in the student’s union Government, or any public office, either by way of election, selection or appointment”
Yasir Aladodo, In response to his suspension, expressed that he knows of the code of conduct and stated his belief that the panel would consider his case with leniency.
He acknowledged the violation of journalistic ethics but remained hopeful for a fair judgment.
“I know it is worth the suspension for violating the ethics of journalism, but it is local politics and I believe the panels will temper justice with mercy.”
In an interview with Abdullateef Abdullahi, the board Editor-In-Chief, he explained that the decision was made to maintain journalistic integrity.
In his statement, he said: “Aladodo is aware of this rule. I chatted with him during his declaration of ambition on his WhatsApp status for this political post. I reminded him that it goes against our rule, and he replied with ‘Yes!’ From there, I believe his interest in politics overweighed his interest in journalism. We need to just free him.
“ It is crucial that we take this action to show that we are committed to the ethical standard and we are maintaining the rule to preserve credibility.”
He added that “ all members are always briefed on the code of conduct during every editorial meeting. and when filling out membership forms to ensure clarity”.