Stories by Stanley Onyekwere
As Nigeria commemorated her 65 years of independence, yesterday, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has called for action on the urgent and deepening challenges that continue to threaten democracy, safety, and freedom of expression.
The union noted that the media cannot celebrate independence while journalists are hunted or silenced and citizens live in fear.
It added that although it is the constitutional duty of the government to protect the lives and property of its citizens, but the senseless and avoidable killing of a young media practitioner, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a rising star in Nigerian journalism, tragically underscores the reality that insecurity remains a pressing crisis.
The NUJ FCT Council therefore reiterated its call for comprehensive security reforms, including community policing, consideration of state policing, and the deployment of modern surveillance technology such as CCTV in the cities.
A statement signed by Chairman, NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, particularly urged the Minister of the FCT and relevant security agencies to rise to the occasion and act, not with words, but with results.
“Journalists are not enemies of the state, they are the lifeblood of democracy, risking their lives daily to tell the truth, amplify the voices of the people, and hold those in power account. Their safety and welfare must be seen as national priorities.
“We demand improved working conditions; fair remuneration and psychosocial support for journalists exposed to trauma and danger.
“As we commemorate this symbolic anniversary, we rededicate ourselves to ethical journalism, anchored on truth, fairness, and public interest. But we cannot do it alone. Government, civil society, and the private sector must collaborate to protect the press and promote the ideals of freedom, justice, and accountability.
“Sommie’s death is not just a personal loss; it is a national disgrace. She returned from abroad to serve her country with passion and professionalism. Her blood must not spill in vain. Let her memory ignite a renewed national commitment to protect journalists and confront insecurity with urgency and sincerity.
“On this Independence Day, we call on Nigerians to remember that democracy dies in silence; and silence thrives when the press is unprotected”, the statement read in part.
“To explore the structural collaboration with your office through media campaign to sensitize the public on the rights and potentials of persons with special needs; capacity building program for Journalists on disability sensitivity reporting.”
On his part, Chairman, NUJ FCT Council Committee on Disability, Comrade Kehinde Akintola while applauding the feats achieved by Hon. Abba since assumption of office, harped on the need for enforcement of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018 which he described as a monumental step.
While noting that the full implementation remains a significant challenge, particularly within the media industry, six years after the Act was signed into law by late President Muhammadu Buhari, Comrade Akintola called for the setting up of up a Presidential Committee on that will ensure compliance at all levels.
The highpoint of the courtesy visit was the presentation of a Charter of requests to Hon. Abba for consideration and implementation.
