BEVERLY HILLS, May 03, (THEWILL) – Senate President Bukola Saraki on Tuesday in Abuja commended Nigerian journalists and the media for their invaluable service and contributions to the development of the country.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the commendation was contained in his message to Nigerian journalists to mark the World Press Freedom Day.
In the statement signed by Yusuph Olaniyonu, Special Adviser (Media) to the Senate President, Saraki noted that “freedom of the press also connotes the freedom of individuals to partake in the governance of the country.”
He said that the celebration of the World Press Freedom Day was another indication of the prime place the media occupied in the society.
“It is not all professions that have a day set aside internationally to celebrate their contributions to society.
“Our constitution granted some responsibilities and specific freedom to the press in Sections 22 and 39.
“This special constitutional and institutional recognitions bestow on the press a sacred duty and responsibility to be fair to all.
“The freedom comes with the responsibility to adhere to truth and to consciously work for the unity, progress and development of their immediate and larger communities,” he said.
Saraki also called on journalists and other practitioners in the media to always abide by the ethical principles of their profession in the discharge of their duties.
He lauded the contributions of the media and media professionals in the fight for independence, fight against military rule and the struggle to enthrone democratic governance in the country.
Saraki urged the press not to relent in holding government accountable to the people and to continuously remain a defender of the voiceless and downtrodden in the society.
Story by David Oputah
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