The chairman House of Reps Committee on information National Orientation Ethics and Values, Hon Segun Dokun Odebunmi has said the National Assembly is ready to collaborate with media practitioners in Nigeria to enhance professionalism and good welfare package in their country
Odebunmi an All Progressives Congress APC Chieftain said this in his speech as a special guest at the UNESCO world Radio day organized by FIBAN Oyo state chapter in Ibadan
The federal lawmaker lamented the way and manner journalists are being treated by their employers and advise the national body of the union to come up with workable terms that will enhance their practice.
According to him” What journalists need is beyond the freedom of information, there should be financial freedom, job security and enhanced packaged which if in place will bring out yhe best in them”
“i want the journalist to work with national assembly to see how we can help to enhance the profession, my bill was first misconstrued and giving several interpretation but i am sure that the idea will help on enhancing media operations in the country.
A large number of you participated actively in the struggle for democracy and you are still doing it in ensuring the democracy is sustained.
“The press is adjudged to be the 4th arm of all serious government because you perform the all important assignments of interpreting and explaining the policies and actions of government to the people.
You also move round the country, entering communities including volatile areas, risking your life to keep the nation informed.
You deserve a better welfare package beyond your current remuneration. He however cautioned against the high influx of fake and unsubstantiated news which he described as the handy work of “Unknown” pressmen. This in his estimation may jeopardize the already stretched Peace of the nation and frustrate all entreaties by concern institutions to improve the welfare lots of media practitioners. Bunvic concluded.
Similarly, a legal icon Barrister Lateef Fagbemi in his brief remark said journalist should continue to work for the development and growth of the nation just like they did during the pre democracy period
Highlights of the events includes presentation of awards to Hon Segun Odebunmi, Dr Festus Adedayo, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, Chief Yomi Aliu SAN and others.
