By Jasmine Okogeri
Ms. Uloma Peace Okorie, Publisher of Newsxtra Magazine and member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT, has called on her colleagues to forgive Dr. Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC). Dr. Opeifa recently apologized to the NUJ FCT for his outburst against Chief Ladi Bala, a reporter with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).
The Incident
The apology came after Chief Bala was allegedly subjected to verbal abuse while covering the Abuja-Kaduna train derailment incident, which left seven passengers injured. The NUJ FCT condemned Dr. Opeifa’s actions and demanded a public apology.
The Apology
Dr. Opeifa tendered an unreserved apology to both Chief Ladi Bala and the NUJ FCT, stating that he was “carried away in the heat of the moment” and took full responsibility for his actions. He promised to be more mindful in the future and respect journalists’ rights. He made this apology at the instance of the NUJ FCT Council led by Comrade Grace Ike.
Call for Forgiveness
Ms. Okorie urged her colleagues to accept Dr. Opeifa’s apology, citing the biblical principle which states that “to err is human, to forgive is divine.” She emphasized the importance of forgiveness and moving forward, allowing Dr. Opeifa to focus on his duties as NRC MD.