FG reiterates its commitment to press freedom
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to uphold the principles of freedom of the press and to charge professionals with responsible journalism.
Mr. Idris said this while hosting executives of the Center for Media and Society (CEMESO) in Abuja.
“While we promote freedom of the press, we must also hold the media accountable for fulfilling its obligations in a trustworthy, honest and transparent manner.
“You can't report what's wrong and claim you're protecting press freedom. That's unacceptable.
“Freedom of the press is fundamental to a thriving democracy and the Government fully recognizes the importance of a vibrant media environment in fostering democracy.
“President Bola Tinubu is a product of freedom of the press and freedom of the press cannot be suppressed in any way,” Idris said.
According to him, it is wrong to deliberately spread misinformation and inflammatory reporting aimed at sowing discord in society and promoting anarchy under the guise of freedom of the press.
“No one can claim to be exercising freedom of the press by reporting on an issue with the intention of creating disharmony and discontent that ultimately leads to the breakdown of law and order in the nation.”
Mr. Idris warned that the biggest victims of disinformation are media workers, who are at risk of losing public trust, confidence and credibility.
Responding to the request of CEMESO Director-General Dr. Akin Akubul for a review of certain provisions of the constitution that are deemed to impede freedom of the press, the Minister pledged to work with the National Assembly to achieve results.
Mr. Idris also pledged to work with other stakeholders to promote compliance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act and to warn against deliberate abuse of the Act.
Earlier, Mr Akbul praised the minister for changing the narrative of the ministry since taking office.
“There is now a recognition that the narrative coming out of here has changed and that the information sector in Nigeria is moving towards a new era, an era of positive development.”
Source: guardian.ng