By Valentine Amanze, Online Editor
Nigerian journalists and media practitioners have been advised not to be dispirited in their struggle for a better society, irrespective of the attacks often meted out on them in their line of duty.
The Vice Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2019 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi, who gave the advice pointed out that a vigorous press was essential for societal development.
Obi spoke in commendation of the recent International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists.
He explained that journalists played critical roles in every society, stressing that they were often at the risk of attacks by authoritarian regimes and sometimes violent groups seeking to gag the media.
According to him, such attacks could depress other journalists bent on advancing the cause of society through the media.
Obi however urged Nigerian journalists not to be discouraged by some of the harsh realities they face in their line of duties, while urging them to resist every form of media suppression and remain fair and professional in their media practices.
His words: “There have been reports of attacks on journalists discharging their professional duties. Some of these attacks are often not well investigated to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“We must form a united front against attacks on journalists which obviously are attacks on press freedom, a vital ingredient for achieving societal development.
“I encourage journalists and media practitioners to remain resolute in using their career to advance the cause of humanity.”
Obi advised the government to ensure the freedom of press and security of journalists and media practitioners to build a better and more informed society.
