By Lilian Ezejiegu
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Council, in partnership with Anambra Patriots for Soludo, recently organized a one-day training workshop for journalists themed: “Ethical Journalism and Journalist Safety in an Evolving Democracy” at the Godwin Ezeemo International Press Center, Awka.
The event aimed to promote ethical standards in journalism and discuss the crucial role of journalism in election process.
The Guest Speaker, Barr. Dr. Moses Oluchukwu Ugboh, emphasized the crucial role journalists play in the election process, highlighting their responsibility to provide accurate and timely information to the public.
Dr. Ugboh stressed the need for journalists to maintain objectivity and fairness in their reportage, ensuring that information is balanced and educative.
The workshop also touched on the importance of journalist safety and security, particularly in the context of evolving democracy.
Architect Okey Ezeobi, Managing Director of Anambra State Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and convener of the event, emphasized the importance of truthfulness in journalism, saying that patriots must uphold integrity. He praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo for reaching out to previously inaccessible communities, acknowledging his efforts as commendable.
The former MD/Editor National Light, Mr. Victor Agusiobo, highlighted the significance of physical safety and risk assessment for journalists, emphasizing the need for emotional intelligence in reportage.
INEC REC, Dr. Queen Elizabeth Agwu, commended NUJ for being there for her whenever she needs assistance in her job. She advised journalists to verify information before disseminating it to the public, emphasizing the need to know their source for credibility purposes.
Igwe Pius Omachonu urges journalists to be conscious of safety, avoid biases and prevent glitches.
The Chairman of NUJ, Odogwu Emeka Odogwu PhD, Spoke against the practice of brown envelope to favour a contending party, urging journalists to be transparent and stand on the truth despite all odds.
The highpoint of the event was the issuance of Certificates of participation to all journalists at the event.
*Lilian is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*
