An Ibadan, Oyo State based mostly broadcaster Otunba Babatunde Tiamiyu, has advocated for harmonious working relationship between authorities, non-government organisations and the media to foster social, financial, cultural and political improvement of the society.
Tiamiyu, who’s the Common Supervisor of Pensioners FM made the decision whereas delivering a memorial lecture in honour of late former chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FRCN Ibadan Chapel, Comrade Tunde Oluwanike.
Talking on the lecture titled, “Journalist: Working At the moment, Residing Tomorrow,” he urged for assist to make sure a safe future for journalists who scale hurdles each day to carry out their duties.
He charged the federal government and non-government companies towards perceiving journalists as enemies, however present an enabling setting for journalism to thrive.
On the flip facet, he urged journalists to uphold the ideas and ethics of the career by safeguarding public curiosity, affect and worth which ought to function the premise of reportage.
In keeping with him, “Tunde’s story isn’t just one in every of private tragedy, however a stark reminder of the dangers and sacrifices inherent in our notable career.
“His legacy invitations us to replicate on the position of journalists within the society, the challenges we face at this time, and the affect of our work on tomorrow.”
He described the late journalist as a luminary of the airwaves, a weaver of phrases and a seeker of reality “who now resides within the pantheon of the departed,” including that “his spirit undimmed by the shadows that cloak this mortal coil.“
He added, “At the moment, as we stand at this crossroads of reminiscence and aspiration, allow us to heed the decision to honour his legacy, to embrace the problem laid earlier than us – journalists, working at this time, dwelling tomorrow.”
Whereas noting why journalists have been sometimes called the fourth property, an important pillar within the basis of any democratic society, Tiamiyi mentioned, “We’re tasked with uncovering the reality, holding energy to account, and offering the general public with the data they should make knowledgeable choices.
“This position isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. It requires braveness, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to the ideas of equity, accuracy, and transparency.
“In at this time’s world, the significance of journalism can’t be overstated. With the rise of misinformation and the manipulation of info, the position of journalists as custodians of reality is extra important than ever.
“We’re the bridge between occasions and the general public, between actuality and notion. Our work shapes public opinion, influences coverage, and may even change the course of historical past”, he added.
Nevertheless, he famous that the trail of a journalist was fraught with challenges, including that at this time, journalists face myriads of obstacles that might hinder their potential to carry out their duties successfully.
He enumerated the challenges to incorporate proliferation of faux information, the rise of authoritarianism, and the rising risks posed by battle zones.
With these challenges, he mentioned Nigerian journalist discovered himself at crossroad in upholding the ethics of the career in a media home with sure sentimental or political leanings,” he famous.
Whereas noting {that a} journalist can also be a human being just like the president of any nation, he mentioned safety companies ought to respect the journalism career by stopping police brutality and the harassment of journalists.
He added that journalists must be free to hold out their duties with none worry of assault or intimidation, whereas additionally charging media house owners to deal with journalists just like the human being they’re, and guarantee holistic welfare package deal for them.
