National Association of Seadogs, also known as the Pyrates Confraternity, Kwara and Kogi zone, has advocated that journalists be allowed to operate without fear of reprisal or persecution in their attempts to safeguard the nation’s democracy.
In its statement to mark World Press Freedom Day, titled; ‘Press Freedom Under Siege: The Plight of Journalists in Kwara State,’ the association said that swift and decisive action must be taken by the government, judiciary and police against any attempt to infringe upon rights of journalists.
The statement signed by the zonal coordinator (steerer) of the association, Gbolahan Balogun, also asked the government to grant journalists unhindered access to information at all times.
Also, the group urged journalists to remain steadfast in their pursuit of truth and ethical journalism practices, upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in their reporting.
“The code of practice is guided by the values of honesty, objectivity, fairness, diligence and accountability. The journalist owes the public a duty to reflect and stand by all these in the discharge of his duties.
“Despite the challenges they face, journalists must continue to serve as guardians of democracy, shining a light on corruption, injustice, and abuse of power.
“On this World Press Freedom Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to defending the fundamental right to freedom of expression and press freedom. The National Association of Seadogs stands in solidarity with the journalists of Kwara State and pledges to continue advocating for their rights and freedoms.”
The group also stated that it stands in solidarity with journalists in the state on World Press Freedom Day, against the alleged “backdrop of increasing suppression and intimidation faced by media practitioners in the state.
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“For years, Kwara State boasted a vibrant and active media ecosystem, serving as a beacon of press freedom and democratic expression.
“However, recent events paint a starkly different picture, revealing a troubling pattern of harassment, threats, and even incarceration aimed at silencing the voices of truth and accountability.
“In the past two years alone, numerous incidents have surfaced, underscoring a systematic attempt to muzzle the press through intimidation tactics and legal manoeuvring.
“Journalists have been subjected to arbitrary arrests, physical attacks, and baseless criminal charges, all in blatant disregard for their fundamental rights and the principles of freedom of speech and press.
“The National Association of Seadogs condemns these egregious violations of press freedom and calls on the government of Kwara State to uphold its commitment to democratic principles by ensuring the protection of journalists and creating an environment conducive to free and independent media”.