By Abdullateef Bamgbose
Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Monitoring and Evaluation, Obi Aguocha has warned against media intimidation, censorship and harassment, describing it as a dangerous assault on democracy and human rights.
In an interaction with journalists on Monday over press freedom, Aguocha commended media practitioners for their resilience in the face of political pressure, economic hardship and personal risk.
He described the press as the eyes and ears of the people tasked with holding public officers accountable and informing citizens.
“Journalists are not enemies of the state; they are watchdogs of the people’s interest.. They amplify the voices of the voiceless, expose corruption and tell the stories that matter, without them, democracy would be blind.”
Aguocha called for full implementation of press freedom as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution and international human rights conventions.
He urged government agencies and political leaders to respect the independence of the press and protect journalists from persecution.
“We must move away from a culture of fear and embrace transparency.
“Freedom of the press is not a privilege given by government, it is a fundamental right that must be upheld and defended,” he said.
Aguocha advocated for better welfare for media practitioners, including fair wages, access to legal protection and safer working conditions.
“If we want a more accountable society, we must empower those who speak truth to power. Supporting the press means supporting democracy,” Aguocha said.
He noted that the World Press Freedom Day, observed globally annually on May 3, serves as a reminder to governments of the need for commitment to press freedom and to honour the critical role that journalists play in fostering inclusive, transparent and participatory governance.
He urged young Nigerians to take interest in credible journalism and support platforms that prioritise truth, objectivity and national development.
