National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Olakunle Oyedunmola, KWARA |
The Chairman Kwara State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr. Abdul-Lafeef Lanre Ahmed, in addressing the arrest of Vanguard correspondent, Mr. Demola Akinyemi, noted the need for journalists to carry out their duties effectively.
Speaking exclusively with NATIONAL TELESCOPE during a seminar of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), organised by the Norwegian Union of Journalists, which was hosted at the Kwara NUJ Secretariat in Ilorin, Mr. Ahmed expressed his concerns, stating that the case should have been resolved without involving the courts.
He pointed that the NUJ executive team has reached out to legal experts, including the Chairman of Nigeria Bar Association Kwara Chapter, Bar. Kamaldeen Gambari, who assured them of assistance in resolving the matter amicably.
“He has assured us to come into the matter and the case can still be settled amicably despite being in the Court. If by implication a Journalist is taken to court, it has significant implication on the work of Journalism as a profession, so the media must be protected.
“The Law is in place to ensure that citizens seek for redress if they feel aggrieved, but must realise that media is working for the cause of the society”, he stressed.
Ahmed emphasised the importance of protecting journalists and ensuring their freedom to report without fear of legal repercussions, highlighting the significance of the media in and to the society.
On the seminar, ‘Gender Equality and Equity in the workplace’, the NUJ chairman stressed the importance of such training for journalists to effectively discharge their duties.
He highlighted the need for open communication to address gender-related issues and harassment in media organisations.
A veteran journalist and Managing Director of The National Telescope, Christie Doyin (JP), also addressed the seminar, emphasising the risks journalists face in their line of work and the importance of safety in reporting.
She encouraged journalists to use gender-sensitive language in their reports to promote inclusivity and respect.
Also adding that “neglecting safety considerations could lead to dire consequences, including physical violence, harassment, and even loss of life.
“This underscores the importance of implementing robust safety measures”, she noted
She advised that journalists should always conduct thorough risk assessments before covering stories, while considering the location and potential hazards while carrying out their crucial role in society.
