By Emeka Chiaghanam, Awka
Journalists and media executives have been urged to prioritise responsible journalism, highlighting the crucial role of ethical reporting in an era characterised by information overload and rapid news dissemination in a society facing security challenges.
This call was emphasised during
the 2023 Bloggers/Security Summit, themed "Understanding State Image and
Responsiveness in Security Reporting in Contemporary Nigeria: Anambra As a Case
Study." The event was organised by the Anambra State Council of the
Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in collaboration with Angel Network News
(ANN) and was held at the NUJ Secretariat in Awka.
The summit, which convened at
the NUJ Secretariat in Awka, brought together journalists, bloggers, media
practitioners, media executives, security agencies, and high-ranking government
officials. Their objective was to exchange insights on the evolving role of
media practitioners in today's society.
In his opening address, Dr.
Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, the NUJ Anambra State Chairman, underscored the critical
role played by the media in disseminating information and raising awareness
about security issues. He expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests at
the event and reiterated the Union's commitment to collaborating with the state
government and key stakeholders to enhance the overall quality of life in
Anambra. Dr. Odogwu emphasised the need for greater synergy between the media
and security forces in addressing security concerns within the state.
The Keynote Speaker, former
Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Engr. Emeka Eze,
expressed optimism that the outcomes of the Summit would play a pivotal role in
addressing the pressing issues at hand. Represented by Dr. Nelson Omenugha, the
Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Youth Empowerment, Dr. Eze urged
media organisations to actively work towards promoting a positive image of the
state. He stressed that Anambra State, known for its diligent populace, vibrant
trade and commerce, academic excellence, and literary achievements, should be
portrayed in a manner that truly reflects these strengths and contributions,
rather than being depicted negatively.
Co-speaker Dr. Kenneth Osayi,
from the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at Nnamdi Azikiwe University,
highlighted the role of journalists as agents of change. He called on them to
be responsive and add value to society through their reportage. Dr. Osayi noted
the friction between journalists and the Anambra State government, criticizing
the state's decision to shut down the National Light newspaper. He also
criticized the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) and the Ministry of
Information for not meeting expectations. Dr. Osayi urged journalists to
provide meaning in their reporting and avoid ethnic bias.
In his address, Mr. Aderemi
Adeoye, who serves as both the Chairman of the Occasion and Anambra State Commissioner
of Police, commended the NUJ for its commendable initiative. He was represented
at the event by Mr. David Ilayonomon, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in
charge of Finance and Administration. Mr. Adeoye emphasized the significant
impact of such gatherings in fostering a safer and more patriotic society. He
reiterated the importance of media professionals adhering to ethical standards
and stressed the necessity of verifying information for authenticity and
considering its potential impact on the public before dissemination.
Earlier during her remarks,
Chairman of NUJ Training and Human Development, and the events Organising
Chairman, Comrade Uche Kalu, contended that it is the fundamental duty of
journalists to influence public perception of the state's image and
responsiveness. She articulated that the primary objective of the Summit was to
facilitate a comprehensive roundtable dialogue focused on effectively
showcasing and enhancing the state's reputation. Additionally, it aimed to
bolster synergy and collaboration among the media, security agencies, and the
government.
In attendance was Dr. Ifeanyi
Obiefuna, the Editor/In-Chief of Angel News Network, who stressed the power of
media in shaping societal issues. He highlighted that no society can progress
without a peaceful and serene environment and called for increased media
involvement in addressing daunting security challenges.
The summit featured
participants from various law enforcement agencies within the state, including
the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence
Corps (NSCDC), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Nigeria
Immigration Service. They shared valuable perspectives on the importance of
collaborative efforts to enhance security in Anambra.
Notable figures in attendance
at the event included Comrade Humphrey Nwafor, the Anambra State Chairman of
the Nigeria Labour Congress; Mr. Okon Antai, the Chairman of the Private
Security Companies of Nigeria, Anambra State Chapter; Comrade Chikwelu Adigwe,
the State President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE);
and Chairman of the Correspondent Chapel NUJ, Anambra State, Hon. Emmanuel
Ilozue.
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