The Nigerian Union of Journalists, Lagos State Council have expressed disappointment over the destruction of media houses and equipment in the State.

Some of the media houses that got destroyed by hoodlums after the Lekki Toll Gate shooting were TVC, LTV and Radio Lagos/Eko FM and others.

Dr Qasim Akinreti Chairman NUJ Lagos State Council in a statement on Sunday said it is a very trying times for the media industry and the country at large.

He said the violent events of EndSARS protesters have left the media bruised and further plunged it into distress.

”I had the opportunity of accessing the destruction of TVC facilities from a distance at Ikosi. I walked round LTV and Radio Lagos/Eko FM as well as traffic Radio and interacted with some colleagues and the leadership of the organisations during and after the horrific attacks.

”I visited one of the photojournalists assulted by the hodlums and interacted with the remaining two including an exco of the Council, ” he said.

The Union said is taking steps to augment the welfare efforts of the management of the state broadcasters as well as the security agents in the complex, as well as medical check-up will be arranged for the three photo Journalists.

He said the destruction of media facilities is an affront on the Nigerian media which have always stood in defence of Free speech and democracy.

”Our joy from available reports from the leadership of various Chapels, media organisations and other senior officials indicates that Journalists in the affected media organizations caught up in the crisis are safe.

”However, the destruction of equipment and properties in the media houses are of great concern.

”Accordingly, I briefed the Commissioner of Information and Strategy and the Permanent Secretary of the situation of things. Further discussions will continue next week.”

It will be recalled that the media organisations before now provides means of livelihood to our teeming members, we must support all efforts to assist our members and their organizations.

He said that the NUJ Lagos State Council will push for an establishment of distress fund for Journalists in the affected organizations whose vehicles were vandalised. Compensation for the damaged cameras for the Photojournalists will also be pursued.

”We are assuring our members in the affected media organizations that the union stand with them.

I plead with our members to make sure that they observe all safety precautionary measures in covering crisis events.

I equally appeal to the ENDSARS protesters to sheath their sword so that government can start implementing the remaining demands.”