As Muslims across Nigeria celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Grace Ike, has called on media practitioners in the nation’s capital to embrace the spirit of the season by promoting ethical reporting, national unity and a renewed commitment to press freedom.
In a Sallah goodwill message issued on behalf of the Council’s Executive Committee, Comrade Ike emphasised that the core virtues of the season, sacrifice, obedience and truth must be reflected in the daily conduct of journalists as watchdogs of society.
“Our nation stands at a critical juncture where the media must act as a healing balm. We must pursue truth with a deep sense of patriotism, ensuring our reports build up the nation rather than tear it apart,” she said.
Comrade Ike urged journalists to resist the temptation of sensationalism, fake news and divisive narratives, stressing that adherence to the core ethics of objectivity, balance and factual accuracy remains non-negotiable.
She reminded members of their unique responsibility to use their pens and voices to bridge ethnic and religious divides, promote mutual respect and advocate peaceful coexistence.
The Chairman reaffirmed that a free press remains the cornerstone of any democracy, insisting that journalists must remain courageous and resolute in the face of intimidation while holding those in authority accountable.
“The sacrifices made by journalists in the FCT, often under challenging conditions, to keep the public informed are deeply appreciated.
“But as we demand the freedom to carry out our duties without fear or favour, we must also match that freedom with a high sense of professional responsibility.” Comrade Ike stated.
Reaffirming the leadership’s mandate, Comrade Ike assured members that the Nigeria Union of Journalists remains firmly committed to prioritising the welfare of journalists, defending them against violations of their rights and fostering a safe environment for robust investigative journalism.
She also used the occasion to call for unity among journalists. Comrade Ike concluded by wishing all Muslim media professionals a peaceful and blessed Eid celebration, urging them to extend kindness to the less privileged in the spirit of Sallah.
