By Amos Okioma
The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), on Tuesday urged media practitioners in Bayelsa State to be objective and professional in their reportage of security activities in the state and avoid sensationalism
Mr Ideba Pedro Awili, the State Commandant, NSCDC, gave the advice in Yenagoa when executive members of the Federated Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) visited him in his office.
According to him, the media had a very important role to play in terms of dissemination of information to the Nigerian populace.
He urged them to do investigative journalism and not to report activities of security agencies in the country in such a way that the people would lose confidence in their capacity to maintain law and order.
He said: “I want to thank the Nigerian Union of Journalists, in informing, educating and entertaining the general public.
“Without the efforts of the journalists, our story and our fight against pipeline vandalism, illegal bunkering and oil theft will not be heard. You have been able to stand and report most of our activities in Bayelsa.
“Most of the people do not know what is happening, but through your efforts the populate now know what is happening in the state.
“We are so committed in providing security for the nation and its national assets.”
He assured the journalists of their commitment in working with them in Bayelsa.
Besides, the Chairman, Federated Correspondents’ Chapel, Mr Julius Osahon, who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Comrade Chris Eze, had said that the visit was to facilitate more collaboration and partnership with the security organizations in promoting peace and stability in the country.
He also assured the command of balance report in line with journalism ethics and professionalism.
