*THE MEDIA IS THE CONSCIENCE OF THE NATION:

*....SEN. DR. ORJI UZOR KALU.*

Moves for protection of journalists.


By Amb Timothy Nwachukwu LLB


The Distinguished Senator representing Abia North Senatorial Zone, His Excellency Sen. Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu CFR has assured Nigerians that the Senate will strengthen the legal mechanisms that guarantees freedom of expression in accordance with international standards and will ensure the passage of his proposed bill "A Bill for an act to safe guard and protect Journalist and media professionals by providing a safe working environment for journalist bill 2022".



Sen. Kalu highlighted that The basic role of the press is to uphold the fundamental objectives contained in the Nigerian Constitution
by holding the government responsible for, and accountable to the people.


He restated that the media ranks next,
after the three arms of the government, hence it is termed "The Fourth Estate of the Realm".



He opined that the press provides the platform for a multiplicity of voices to be heard both at national, State and local level, it is the public’s watchdog, activist and guardian as well as educator, entertainer and contemporary chronicler and many societies owe their social development to the dynamism of freedom of expression and this explains the precarious
position the media occupies in the socio-economic and political life of the people.



According to him, the media has evolved significantly and has gone digitally thereby encouraging citizens Journalism and participation in governance but Unfortunately, there is a growing threat to the safety of journalists in Nigeria which constitutes a terminal threat to democracy.



He stated that the Senate of the National Assembly recognised the important role journalists and other media actors play in society, and hence, securing the safety of journalists through legislation is paramount to the maintenance of democracy.



He further stated that as a lawmaker and stakeholder in the Nigerian media space, he has unequivocally condemned violent attacks and denigration of the media by some politicians.


He assured that the Senate will continue to send positive message to all Nigerians through the enactment and amendment of legislation to show positive and genuine commitment that the press and the security of journalists is vital to the Sustainability of our democracy.