The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Tuesday condemned the former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani Kayode for verbally abusing a reporter in Calabar, Cross River State.

During a press conference in Calabar,  a Daily Trust Newspaper journalist, Eyo Charles had asked the former Minister if his recent tour was been sponsored by a political party.

In his reaction, Kayode assaulted the journalist and threatened him for daring to ask such a question.

However, the NUJ President, Chris Isiguzo immediately released a statement condemning the actions of Fani-Kayode.

”By denigrating the journalist, Fani Kayode has exposed himself the more as an intolerant and unstable person who will not want his activities closely scrutinised by the Media.”

He said is instructive to remind the likes of Fani Kayode that it is the Constitutional right of Journalists to monitor and keep a check on people and institutions in power.

”By delving into politics and holding political office, Fani Kayode is very conversant  with the watchdog role of the media.

For him to have embarked on assessment of projects in some states, even though we are yet to be told under what platform, he is doing so, it is proper for the media to hold him to account for his actions and decisions, ” he said.

The NUJ boss said the reaction of the Former Minister was totally unacceptable, dishonourable and reprehensible and we demand for retraction of his untoward, irritating and awkward utterances which negate simple decorum and civility.

”We are more shocked that the same Kayode who had in recent times, used his social media handles to call leaders to account is at the same time attacking a Journalist for a simple demand for him to unmask those behind his nationwide tour. He had already visited six states. This is indeed, terribly disappointing.”