Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF) has condemned attacks on journalists particularly during the nationwide protest.
The Press Freedom Manager,
AMDF, Mrs Zhiroh Jatau, in a statement, described the development as heartbreaking, demoralising and sacrilegious considering the pivotal role of journalists in the society.
She declared that attack on media and journalists is an attack on the people and on freedom.
She said,”August 10th marks the end of Nigeria’s #EndBadGovernance protest. The peaceful protest which was schedule to hold for 10 days across the 36 states of the federation was marred by acts of harassments, violence, deaths.
“Journalists were not left out as reports of various forms of attacks and intimidation were recorded. Its more disappointing to see that some of these harassments came from security personnel, protesters and thugs.
“Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF) unreservedly condemn such attacks on journalists. We wish to make it clear that society must understand an attack on media and journalists is an attack on the people and on freedom.”
Mrs Jatau stressed that the role of media in information dissemination, as well as development cannot be overlooked.
She pointed out that media’s contribution towards nation building earned it its position as the 4th estate of the realm after the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary.
“Journalists should always be allowed to carry out their duties without intimidation. The profession is guided by ethics that were carefully formulated to ensure balanced reporting, safety of citizens and development of society.
“The Media is a partner. Journalists are there to be the voice that amplify opinions. They should be accorded respect for the duties they carry out,” she stated.
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