Journalists have been charged not to allow themselves to be used by politicians to terrorise Nigerians through false publications, especially now that the country is facing security problems.
Governor God’swill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio, gave the advice while performing the foundation laying ceremony of the international press centre in Uyo.
He expressed sadness at the breach of ethics by some journalists, and enjoined practitioners to show decorum and maintain nobility.
He reiterated that journalism is the fourth estate of the realm which practitioners should exhibit professionalism and operate within the law.
Akpabio decried false publications and malicious writings that cause panic, but commended journalists for their courage in fighting for democracy. He called on other professionals to join in.
He paid tribute to New Telegraph Managing Editor (North), Suleman Bisalla, who died in a bomb blast in Abuja on June 25 and former Nigerian Television Authority General Manager (Calabar), Nse Ebong, whose remains were interred last week in Uyo.
Akpabio also lauded the leadership of state Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Chairman, Patrick Albert, for naming the press centre after him.
He donated N100 million for its construction and promised to donate more to ensure its completion before he lives office next year.
Albert estimated the cost of the complex at N1.5 billion. The proposed facilities include 25 rooms for lodging and an auditorium with capacity for 1,000.
In his solidarity message, NUJ National President, Garuba Muhammed, expressed appreciation to Akpabio for his support.
He urged Information Minister, Labaran Maku, to reconstitute the Nigerian Press Council to help check the activities of quack journalists.
Muhammed expressed concern over the frequent death of journalists in the course of their duties and implored media houses to take insurance coverage for journalists as priority.
Akwa Ibom Information Commissioner, Aniekan Umanah, thanked Akpabio for his support for journalists and urged them to reciprocate by shunning gutter journalism.
