By Ummi Ismaeel,
Minna
The Bishop of Catholic Diocece of Minna, Niger State, Dr Martins Igwe Uzoukwu, has blamed politicians and journalists for the high rate of insecurity in Nigeria “for not saying the truth.”
He alleged that they were privy to the problems, but refuse to either say the truth or offer solution.
Uzoukwu made the allegation at the Saint Michael Cathedral Church, Minna, while marking the 55th World Communications’ Day.
His words: “If politicians and media practitioners in their ranks can stand on the side of truth not minding whose ox is gored, there is no reasons Nigeria would be in such a fix as it is today; or better still would have a lee way towards ending most of its critical problems.
“Whatever we do, we will be accountable to God”.
Uzoukwu, spoke on the theme, “Come and see”, pointed out that what Nigeria needed most was the truth and, “only the truth can make Nigeria survive or out of the fix.
“We encourage our politicians to always speak the truth. What Nigeria is going through now will soon come to an end. But Nigerians must speak the truth because it is only the truth that can salvage the situation we have found ourselves now.
“I want the media to adhere strictly to the tenets of their profession by standing on the side of truth at all times. You must shelve the bad and ugly side even though the truth is bitter. Say the right thing and speak to your conscience”.
The Diocesesan Communications Director, Revd. Fr. Jude Offor, had earlier explained that the Media has what it takes to save Nigeria, adding however that, “Whatever you say can either make or mar the Nigerian society”.
Offor, however, encouraged media to deploy all their writing skills in reaching out to the diverse segments of the Nigerian society, especially the downtrodden and physically challenged persons just as they are and where they live.
He expressed regrets that present day journalists seemed to have been restricted to serving the interests of governments in power at the detriment of the generality of the Nigerian society, while appealing for the reversal of the trend.
Offor reminded journalists of their primary responsibilities which included; serving as voice to the voiceless, a tool of communication dissemination and as well a bridge between government and the governed, the roles he said they must not abandon for any reason.
