MEDIA MANAGERS APPEAL TO SECURITY AGENCIES TO ALWAYS PROTECT JOURNALISTS

In commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, the Association of Bloggers and Journalists Against Fake News in Nigeria (ABJFN) has appealed to the government to create safer working conditions for Nigerian journalists and end the criminalization of the press.

According to the ABJFN National President, Comrade James Ezema, in a statement,

“Journalists are not criminal elements, and journalism must not be criminalized in Nigeria. We call on security agencies to protect journalists in their line of duty and not threaten them as enemies of the state.”

“We call on security agencies to protect journalists in their line of duty and not threaten them as enemies of the state”.

Ezema also disclosed that journalists have a “constitutional role in informing and educating the the public” as well as setting agendas for the leadership of the country at all levels.

He revealed that the constant dangers and threats experienced on the field of duty makes it difficult for journalist to carry out their duties freely.

“As journalists and media professionals, we face numerous challenges in carrying out our duties, including physical attacks, harassment, threats, and unlawful detention.”

“The culture of impunity has emboldened perpetrators, making it difficult for journalists to operate freely. We urge the Federal, state, and local governments to take concrete steps to protect journalists and ensure their safety”

The ABDJN President also implored journalists to remain dedicated and maintain professionalism in observing factual reporting and ethical journalism.

He also encouraged reporting cases of violence and harassment to the proper authorities.

The United Nations was also commended for their efforts in advocating for safety of journalists.

“We commend the efforts of the United Nations in promoting the safety of journalists and combating impunity. The UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity is a crucial step towards addressing the challenges faced by journalists worldwide”

The statement closed with a tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

“On this day, we remember and honor them by persisting in our mission for a safe and free environment for all journalists,” said Ezema.