The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has called on journalists in the nation’s capital to use the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir to recommit themselves to ethical reporting, national unity, and the defence of press freedom.
Ike made the call in a Sallah goodwill message issued on behalf of the Council’s Executive Committee, as Muslims across the country mark the annual festival of sacrifice.
She stressed that the conduct of journalists should mirror the spirit of the celebration in their everyday professional practice as the country navigates through mountainous challenges.
“Our nation stands at a critical juncture where the media must act as a healing balm. We must pursue truth with a deep sense of patriotism, ensuring our reports build up the nation rather than tearing it apart,” she said.
The Chairman urged journalists to resist the growing temptation of sensationalism, fake news, and divisive narratives, describing adherence to objectivity, balance, and factual accuracy as non-negotiable standards of the profession.
She reminded members of their unique responsibility to use their platforms to bridge ethnic and religious divides, foster mutual respect, and promote peaceful co-existence across the country.
Reaffirming her commitment to free press, Ike declared that a free press remains the cornerstone of any functioning democracy.
Comrade Ike called on the journalists to remain courageous and unbowed in the face of intimidation, while continuing to hold those in power to account.
She however, emphasised that the freedom journalists demand must be matched with a high sense of professional responsibility.
“The sacrifices made by journalists in the FCT, often under challenging conditions, to keep the public informed are deeply appreciated,” she stated. “But as we demand freedom to do our jobs without fear or favor, we must also match that freedom with a high sense of professional responsibility.”
Ike also reaffirmed the NUJ FCT Council’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of its members, defending journalists against violations of their rights, and creating a safe environment for ronust investigative journalism.
She used the occasion to call for solidarity and unity amongst Journalists, describing a united press corps as essential to the health of Nigeria’s democracy.
The NUJ FCT Council Chairman concluded by wishing all Muslim media professionals a peaceful and blessed Eid celebration, urging them to extend kindness to the less privileged in the spirit of Sallah.
