by The Ajasa News | August 27, 2024 12:44 pm
…….SDP Pledges Partnership with ACOE for Upcoming Investiture
The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji Shehu Gabam, has emphasized the critical role that media practitioners must play in holding the government accountable to prevent the ongoing recklessness in Nigeria. During a meeting with the leadership of the Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) on Monday, August 26, 2024, in Abuja, Alhaji Gabam underscored the necessity of accurate and comprehensive reporting to keep the government and its agencies in check.
Alhaji Gabam welcomed the ACOE delegation, led by its Chairman, Mr. Martins Odiete, stating, “On behalf of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Social Democratic Party and the entire membership of our party, we are honored by your visit. The role of the fourth estate of the realm is paramount in our democracy, and I believe that if the media can do more in terms of public enlightenment and fact-based reporting, it will compel everyone in positions of power to act responsibly.”
He pointed out that one of Nigeria’s biggest challenges is the under-reporting of critical issues, which has led to a lack of accountability. “When the realities of the country are not adequately reported, it creates an environment where government and security agencies operate under the assumption that the public is unaware of the tragedies unfolding. This assumption is dangerous and must be addressed through vigilant and fearless journalism.”
Alhaji Gabam further urged media professionals to be patriotic in their duties by reporting situations as they are. “We must check the excesses of the system by ensuring that the truth is not hidden. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard the integrity of our nation. No one has more at stake in Nigeria than the other; we all share equal ownership in the future of our country. The current issues we face—bigotry, extremism, and corruption—are man-made, and therefore, they can be corrected through transparency and accountability.”
He added, “Even those in government acknowledge that things are not as they should be. Therefore, it is a moral responsibility for the media to speak out fearlessly on issues affecting our nation, devoid of political, economic, or social bias.”
In his response, Mr. Martins Odiete expressed gratitude to the SDP Chairman for the warm reception and outlined the purpose of the visit. He introduced the ACOE as a growing organization with around sixty credible members, committed to projecting the activities of vibrant organizations like the SDP to the world. “Our association, though young, is composed of reputable media entities. We believe that with us, the Social Democratic Party can achieve even greater visibility and impact as a political party.”
Mr. Odiete also highlighted the upcoming investiture program to mark ACOE’s second anniversary, scheduled for February 2025. He requested the partnership and sponsorship of the SDP for the event, which will span three days. “We are reaching out to vibrant and forward-thinking organizations like yours to support this milestone event. In return, your party will gain significant exposure and benefits from our extensive network across the country.”
Alhaji Gabam assured the ACOE delegation of the SDP’s readiness to partner with them for the investiture. “Once your formal request is submitted, I can assure you that the Social Democratic Party will be on board to support this important event.”
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to fostering a relationship that would contribute positively to Nigeria’s democratic process and the role of the media in ensuring accountability and transparency in governance.
Source URL: https://theajasanews.com/media-practitioners-must-hold-government-accountable-to-halt-recklessness-in-nigeria-sdp-chairman/
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