The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, has joined the global community to commemorate the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
The event which is observed annually on November 2 was designed to implement definite measures to end impunity against journalists.
The Council in a statement signed by the Chairman, Comrade Paul Bazia -Nsaneh and Secretary, Dr Ijeoma Tubosia expressed deep concern the high level of impunity against journalists has persisted over the years even with the creation of national safety mechanism.
“There has been.increasing threats, harassment, and violence faced by journalists in the course of carrying out heir duties, both in the State and other parts of the Country”
The statement called on government well meaning individuals, security agencies and employers of Journalists to promote a safe and enabling environment for Journalists to perform their duties without harn.
“Journalists deserve better for their sacrifices in pursuit of truth, accountability, and justice for the society.”
The NUJ also reiterated its commitment to continue advocating for the safety, welfare, and professional development of journalists in the State.
It further called on Journalists to adopt individual safety measures by upholding the the Journalistic codes, practice collaborative journalism and build public support.
The Union also urged journalists covering sensitive assignments, especially in the risky area to analyze the risk involved before venturing into them, exercise caution in a crime scene, know the law and above all prioritize their lives.
Similarly, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Federal Capital Territory, FCT Council, also called on government authorities, law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders to ensure the safety, protection and dignity of media practitioners in Nigeria.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the Secretary of the Council, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, condemned all forms of violence and intimidation targeted at journalists, describing them as an assault on democracy and freedom of expression.
According to the Council, this year’s observance of the Day is a solemn reminder of the continuing threats, harassment and violence faced by journalists in the line of duty, and the alarming lack of accountability for those responsible for such crimes.
It expressed deep concern that attacks on media practitioners, including intimidation, unlawful arrests, and physical assaults have continued to rise, often without justice being served.
“A society that silences its journalists silences the truth. We cannot build a transparent and accountable democracy when those who bring information to the public are constantly harassed, attacked, or unjustly detained,” the statement read.
The Council further urged the Federal Government and security agencies to demonstrate genuine commitment to ending impunity by thoroughly investigating all past and recent cases of attacks on journalists and prosecuting perpetrators, irrespective of their social or political standing.
It also called on state and non-state actors to respect the constitutional role of journalists, guaranteeing them the freedom to report without fear or interference, adding that the culture of impunity not only endangers journalists but also undermines the citizens’ right to know.
“Justice for journalists is justice for society. Every attack on a journalist is an attack on truth, accountability, and the people’s right to be informed,” the statement stressed.
The Council reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to defending press freedom, promoting journalists’ welfare, and working with relevant partners to ensure that all members of the press can carry out their duties safely and responsibly.
It also paid tribute to journalists who have suffered, been detained, or lost their lives in the pursuit of truth, urging society never to forget their sacrifice.
