By Odo Ogenyi, Uyo
The National Association of Seadogs, Atlantic Shores Deck (Eket Chapter) has called on Akwa Ibom Governor-Elect Mr Umo Eno, to uphold press freedom and protect the rights of journalists and media practitioners in the State, as an essential condition for the sustenance of democracy and its dividends.
In a statement to mark this year’s World Press Freedom Day endorsed by the Decks Cap’n, Utibe Ikot and made available to newsmen in Uyo on Wednesday, the association said they remained committed to the entrenchment of a just and egalitarian society where human dignity is upheld, irrespective of tribe, religion, or creed.
It reminded the incoming administration in the State of the need to respect their commitment and uphold their obligation to press freedom; and also provide an enabling environment for journalists and media practitioners to practise their chosen profession without fear of intimidation, threats, blackmail, imprisonment,
“This is imperative because the press provides the platform for a multiplicity of voices to be heard. At both the national, and state level, it is the public’s watchdog, activist, and guardian as well as educator, entertainer, and contemporary chronicler. Press freedom is an essential pillar to any democracy, especially that of an emerging democracy like Nigeria’s.
“Hence, to maintain its role as a watchdog and a check on government, society and business, the media must remain vigilant and committed to the truth which requires a commitment to rigorous fact-checking, independent reporting, and a willingness to challenge the powerful.
“Freedom of the press is a fundamental right that is essential to the functioning of a democratic society and the maintenance of other human rights.
“As the eyes and ears of the public, journalists must be able to report upon matters of public interest without fear of arrest or other forms of interference.” The statement said.
It however regretted that press freedom, even though enshrined in the Constitution has continually been elusive, as it has been hindered by several factors ranging from obnoxious legislation such as the Cybercrime Act, secrecy, legal pressure, monetary inducement by politicians and other interested parties, intimidation and blackmail by state and non-state actors.
“Furthermore, the Nigerian media importantly lacks statutory institutional back-up to support media practitioners and journalists in the dispensation of their duties as the ‘4th Estate of the Realm’, and grant them access to information, and insulate them from threats of intimidation.
“Therefore, to further strengthen press freedom and consequently, free speech, there is crucial need for increased public awareness of the nexus between press freedom and the other human rights, including the promotion of transparency, accountability, and democracy.
“The public also needs to be conscious of the imperatives of protecting the rights of journalists and ensuring that they can operate without fear of censorship, intimidation, or violence while holding the government continually accountable for their commitment to press freedom.
“The National Association of Seadogs, Atlantic Shores Deck (Eket Chapter) therefore salutes the doggedness and resilience of all conscientious journalists and media practitioners; and pays a glowing tribute to those journalists who have sacrificed their comfort, safety, and even lives in the exercise of their profession.” It concluded.
