Aiyedatiwa says media key partners in Ondo’s progress

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Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has praised the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, as a dependable ally in the development of the Sunshine State.

He made the commendation during the opening ceremony of the union’s 2024 Press Week and public lecture at the NUJ Press Centre in Akure.

Represented by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasised the importance of the press as a vital link between the government and the people.

He affirmed that his administration is committed to fostering an environment where journalists can operate freely, without fear of intimidation or harassment.

“As journalists, being the Fourth Estate of the Realm, it is your duty to keep a close eye on those in authority—whether in the Executive, Legislature, or Judiciary. You serve as watchdogs, safeguarding the interests of the general populace,” the governor stated.

He further praised the media for its role in amplifying the voices of the voiceless, ensuring that societal grievances are heard and addressed by the government.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also urged journalists in the state to maintain professionalism, particularly in the face of growing challenges posed by quackery and disinformation.

He encouraged them to wield their pens, which he described as mightier than the sword, for the betterment of society.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, he promised to continue providing an enabling environment for the media to thrive.

The event included a panel discussion on the theme: “Setting Agenda Amidst Electioneering Paradox and Elusive Economic Development in Nigeria: The Media as the Fourth Estate of the Realm.”

Olumuyiwa Adu, the lead speaker, condemned the negative impact of ethnicity on Nigeria’s political and economic progress.

He stressed that without significant reforms, the status quo would persist. Adu also praised the contributions of Nigeria’s pioneering journalists in exposing societal ills and encouraged collaboration among media professionals.

Abbass Mimiko, a governorship candidate of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) in the recent Ondo State election, echoed the sentiment, describing the media as the true voice of the people.

He emphasised that democracy doesn’t guarantee good governance but empowers the electorate to choose their leaders.

Mimiko reiterated that for progress to be made, the people’s votes must count.Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, represented by Barrister Kayode Taiwo, highlighted the media’s crucial role in national discourse.

He stressed the importance of the media in educating voters and holding political leaders accountable.

Leke Adegbite, Chairman of the NUJ Ondo State Council, used the occasion to appeal to President Bola Tinubu for a special bailout for federal media organisations, while also urging the Ondo State Government to improve the financial health of state-owned media outlets, such as Owena Press.

Adegbite expressed his gratitude to the Governor for appointing NUJ members to key positions and called for more union members to be considered for roles like permanent secretaries.

Abiola Makinde, the Chairman of the occasion and House of Representatives member for Ondo East/West Federal Constituency, emphasized the critical role of the press in shaping national discourse and fostering a responsible media environment.

He noted that the press week served as a reminder of the importance of free speech and the media’s role in shaping public opinion.

The event ended with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Ondo State Chapter Chairman, Ademola Odudu, being honored with the Distinguished Ondo State Peace Ambassador of the Year award for his exemplary contributions to peace in the state.