By Chris Isiguzo
A free press, independent, vibrant, objective and nationalistic is, by and large, the critical pre-condition for good governance in a democracy.
In most countries of Africa, especially in Nigeria, in the past years, the greatest advertisement for the democratic dispensation is the free climate of dialogue and debate (free expression) that has been initiated and sustained by the media.
The existence of an unfettered and independent press is necessary for democracy to flourish. The right to freedom of expression, thought and association will strengthen and encourage , accountability of governments to all citizens.
The existence of freedom of expression and information is recognised as a basic human right in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the UN in 1948, the European Convention on Human Rights, and the African Charter on Human and People’s Right. In particular, Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of human rights states that, “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media regardless of frontiers.”
Section 22 of Chapter 11 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria confers on the press, radio, television and other agencies of mass communication, the obligation to uphold at all times , the fundamental objectives contained in the chapter, as well as uphold the responsibility of the government to the people.
And for the media to effectively monitor government activities, journalists must work towards strengthening press freedom, reinforce the quality of journalism and consolidate editorial independence.
There must be strict adherence to ethical principles , respect for the truth, the need to minimize harm, and accountability to build public trust.
While we acknowledge the fact that the press should at all times hold those in government accountable, yet, government must not be seen to be interfering in journalistic affairs, although government can help in creating conducive environments for media freedom, by removing obstacles to press freedom and encouraging better working conditions for journalists.
Other key areas the media can strengthen democratic values are through dialogue and raising awareness of the role informed journalism plays in creating confident, engaged and tolerant democratic communities, whether defined by language ,culture, ethnicity or religious beliefs.
The press have a mediating role in an ideal setting. Regarded as the fourth estate of the realm, the press is an essential factor in the process of democracy. The media do not only monitor governance and make government accountable, but also help to mobilise the populace to participate in the process of governance and development.
Since the functions of government are clear, in performing these functions, government officials are expected to be honest, responsible, transparent, accountable, efficient in administration and services delivery. Where any of these is lacking or is deliberately subverted, it is the responsibility of the media to raise alarm.
Some of the constraints against free and independent media, are that a number of ostensibly independent media establishments in Nigeria are infact owned by leading politicians and (or) businessmen, thereby heightening concerns about the continuation of the independence of the press , while poor professional standards and ethical violations continue to make the press vulnerable to attacks.
Acts of impunity against the media, including murder, are the ultimate forms of censorhip. These acts unfortunately , are likely to increase as we prepare for the 2023 elections. It should be stressed that attacks against journalists and media equipment are illegal under international humanitarian law and the Nigerian legal system, as such we call on all well meaning Nigerians to guard the press jealously in order to sustain and preserve our democracy.
We believe that the feature of democracy is periodic and credible elections, during which mandates are either renewed or new leaders emerge.The role of the journalist within the system, especially against the background of professional responsibility cannot therefore be over emphasised.
Finally , let me conclude by quoting John W. Johnson, who was very emphatic when he said that, “The Media must always test the resiliency of the free speech and free press clauses by challenging any attempt to restrict their coverage of political activities and the society and by arguing passionately that the public has a right to know. This is how it should be, since a free press, even one that occasionally exceeds the bounds of good taste is essential to the preservation of a democratic society….”
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is with these in mind that I stand before you to express immense gratitude to His Excellency, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the Governor of Delta State for bequeathing this imposing building to the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State as Press Center. Let me assure Mr Governor, that the Union will take good care of this structure so that the good legacies of this administration will be preserved for those who will come after us.
Like Oliver Twist, your excellency, I want to also appeal that you assist our council in Delta with mobility as the council today remains the only one without a functional bus and sedan. Understanding your disposition to cordial working relationship with the media, I know your excellency will grant our request.
In the same vein, I want to salute your excellency for having assembled the best of media professionals who are doing exceptionally well in coordinating the media for you. The Commissioner for Information, Charles Aniagu, CPS, Olise Ifeajika and off course the SSG, Chief Patrick Ukah are media eggheads who we hold highly.
