Minister of information and national orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reiterated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to always ensure the freedom of the press.
Idris said this at a Press Freedom and Good Governance Awards organised by the Nigeria Union of
Journalists (NUJ) to mark the World Press Freedom Day in Abuja on Saturday night.
Those who received the Good Governance Awards include the governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr Hyacinth Alia and his Borno counterpart, Prof Umaru Zulum, and the speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Abbas Tajudeen.
The minister insisted that journalists cannot allow purveyors of disinformation and fake news to occupy their space, and must celebrate themselves as they do for others.
He said the president, being a product of free press himself, would never do anything that would impede the press from carrying out its constitutional role of holding the government accountable and ensuring good governance.
Idris said democracy cannot survive without a free press, adding that the media space must maintain its sanctity for the development of the country.
“I made a solemn pledge on the first day of assumption of duty that this indeed would be one of the best times for media practitioners in this country because we would say it exactly as it is for you to report. Press freedom is very important to uphold. Freedom of expression is something that nobody should toy with. But I keep telling us also, reminding us that your freedom also has to go with enormous responsibility.
“You cannot allow purveyors of main, disinformation, and fake news to occupy your space. It is so easy for anyone now to pick his phone or computer and say something or write something that puts this country in trouble. Of course, fake news is not just a Nigerian problem, it is a world problem and the world over, all practitioners of the media are coming together to find a common solution to that”, he said.
In his remarks, Abbas said the parliament is committed to reviewing moribund media laws in order to bring them in tandem with modern realities and democratic ethos and principles.
Abbas who was represented by the House spokesperson, Hon Akin Rotimi, acknowledged the integral place of a free and responsible press in the activities of government hence its resolve to strengthen media freedom and operations through legislative agenda.
“Press freedom and good governance are intricately linked, forming a symbiotic relationship that is essential for the functioning of a healthy democracy. Press freedom ensures that the media can operate independently, holding those in power accountable and serving as a watchdog for the public interest.
“When the media are free to report without fear of censorship or reprisal, they can shine a light on government actions, policies, and decisions, thereby fostering transparency and accountability. In a society where press freedom thrives, the media play a crucial role in checking the excesses of those in government.
“Journalists have the leverage and courage to investigate and expose corruption, abuse of power, and other malpractices within the government. By acting as a check on governmental power, the media help prevent authoritarianism, promote adherence to the rule of law, and safeguard democratic principles,” he added.
On behalf of the awardees, Governor Alia urged journalists to continue to live up to their mandate without fear or favour, saying the award would spur them to do more for their people.
“What you do to us tonight is way beyond tonight. I am emotionally indebted to what this organisation is elated to do because when you work, having known that you’re doing it not to be recognised. You are doing it because it is a duty call. You are doing it because it is a divine obligation for you to do just what you are doing. And then someone watching from somewhere sees it, records it, acknowledges it, it is something of huge magnitude,” he said.
In his opening remarks, the national president of NUJ, Chris Isiguzo, called on the government at all levels to provide a level playing ground for the press to operate so as to engender good governance.
“Journalists are at the forefront of the battle against environmental degradation, using the pen and the camera to raise awareness, expose environmental injustices and advocate for sustainable solutions. It is through their courageous reporting that we can hope to mobilise action and effect change for the betterment of our planet and future generations,” he said.