By Eberechi Obinagwam
The Zone 2 Command of the Nigeria Police in Onikan, Lagos has assured journalists of their safety during the 2019 elections.
Speaking at the 2018 World Press Freedom Day Program, organised by the Public Affairs Section of the United States Mission in Nigeria, the Zone’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Dolapo Badmus, says the Nigerian police would ensure the safety of journalists and every other person in the country.
Also,CSP Badmus advised journalists to be objective and patriotic in reporting their stories in such a way that the stories will be fair to all.
“Don’t let your interviewer be under tension because of your question. Questions should be exciting and interesting and not harmful,” she said.
She advised journalists to establish contacts in areas where they are posted during the elections and visit the nearest police station to acquaint themselves with the officers in a polite manner and non-aggressive way.
Former Vice chancellor of Akintola Akinloya University of Agriculture, Ondo State, who spoke earlier on Media and Electoral Disputes, said the mass media has the responsibility to declare state of emergency when things are not working well in the state and also force the Nigerian electorate to obey rules governing election conduct in the country.
He also advised journalists to play their role well and not allow the fire of election to consume the country.