Nigeria At 65: NUJ FCT Urges Action On Insecurity, Press Freedom, Welfare
By Sunday Etuka, Abuja
As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has underscored the need to address the challenges threatening the nation’s democracy, especially insecurity and freedom of expression.
Chairman, NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, who made the call on Wednesday, said the government holds the constitutional duty to protect the lives and property of its citizens.
She noted that the senseless and avoidable killing of Arise Television’s Reporter, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a rising star in Nigerian journalism, tragically underscores the reality that insecurity remains a pressing challenge.
Comrade Ike submitted that the nation cannot be celebrating independence while journalists are hunted or silenced and citizens live in fear. Therefore, called for comprehensive security reforms, including community policing, consideration of state policing, and the deployment of modern surveillance technology such as CCTV in the cities.
The NUJ FCT Council Chair, also called on the Minister of the FCT, and relevant security agencies to rise to the occasion andact, not with words, but with results.
“Journalists are not enemies of the state,they are the lifeblood of democracy, risking their lives daily to tell the truth, amplify the voices of the people, and hold those in power account. Their safety and welfare must be seen as national priorities. We demand: Improvedworking conditions; Fair remuneration and Psychosocial support for journalists exposed to trauma and danger,” she noted.
While reaffirming the journalists’ commitment to ethical journalism, anchored on truth, fairness,and public interest, Comrade Ike noted that they need the collaboration of the government, civil society, and the private sector, to protect the press and promote the ideals of freedom, justice, and accountability.
“Sommie’s death is not just a personal loss;it is a national disgrace. She returned from abroad to serve her country withpassion and professionalism. Her blood must not spill in vain. Let her memory ignite a renewed national commitment to protect journalists and confront insecurity with urgency and sincerity.
“On this Independence Day, we call onNigerians to remember that democracy dies in silence; and silence thrives whenthe press is unprotected,” she stressed.
