By Harry Awurumibe, Editor, Abuja Bureau
President Muhammadu Buhari has commended the contributions of the Nigerian Press in the attainment of democracy since the beginning of the nationhood in 1960.
He also acknowledged rather sadly that in the course of securing our democracy, many journalists have had to pay a heavy price including the supreme price.
President Buhari who said this in his nationwide broadcast to mark the 2020 Democracy Day however, warned the Press against hate speech, fake news and other unethical professional conducts.
Said he, “I will also like to convey our deep appreciation to members of the Press for your doggedness in the struggle for attainment of democracy since the beginning of our nationhood.
I must admit that the relationship between the media and successive governments has not always been perfect. But there is no denying the fact that you have been an effective watchdog for the society especially in holding public officers to account.
“It is sad that in the course of securing our democracy, some of your colleagues have had to pay a heavy price.
We will continue to guarantee freedom of the Press as we place high premium on responsible journalism that is devoid of hate speech, fake news and other unethical professional conduct”.
