Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, Commandant General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps
The Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Ogun Command, Commandant Niyi Ajibola has assured journalists that the relationship between the security personnel and journalists in the state remain cordial before and after 2023 elections.
Ajibola who was represented by the Head of Operations, Ogun NSCDC, Ajala Kolawole gave the promise at the 2022 International Day to End Impunity for Crime Against Journalists organised by Atoto Communication themed “2023: Safety of the Press – Before, During and After” held at the NUJ Press Centre, Iwe-Iwe-Iroyin Hall, Oke-Ilewo Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Kolawole, speaking during a panel discussion, stressed that security personnel are not enemies of journalists, as he assured media practitioners of protection before, during and after the forthcoming 2023 general elections.
“We, as security personnel, are not enemies to the journalists because our relationship remain cordial.
“As election is approaching, try to know about the terrain you are going to work. As for us, we are always ready to give you adequate protection.
However, one of the panelists, Barrister Kayode Aderemi blamed journalists for allowing their attackers go scot-free without prosecution.
He also charged the journalists to change tactics in dealing with acts of assault, attack or assassination on their members.
Also speaking at the forum, a member of civil society organisation, Comrade Dolapo Junaid called for adequate security for journalists and others during the election.
In the same vein, veteran journalist, Dada Olanipeku expressed dissatisfaction on how journalists are being harassed while carrying out their constitutional resposibility.
He implored journalists to desist from collecting money from politicians so that they would be free from their threats while performing their duty.
The Chairman of the Occasion, High Chief Olakunle Olalekan appreciated the doggedness of journalists and called for adequate protection for them by the security architecture of the state.
“I believe everyone present at this occasion will agree with me that for any democratically elected government to exist and reign in a sovereign nation, the freedom of the press must be upheld in high esteem. Once the press is gagged, such a government will no longer be a popular one and will not be accepted by the people.
“Moreover, elections will come and go, but the scars incurred by journalists while performing their duties may remain forever.