The Kogi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for the provision of comprehensive insurance cover for practicing journalists, following the road accident involving members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Union along the Obajana Road on Saturday while returning from an official assignment.
In a statement issued in Lokoja and jointly signed by the Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Ademu Seidu Haruna, and the Secretary, Dr. Atuluku Samuel, the Council described insurance coverage for journalists as a necessity, considering the numerous occupational hazards associated with the profession.
The Council noted that journalists, as members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, play a vital role in promoting democracy, accountability, and national development, stressing that they deserve adequate protection through a well-structured insurance scheme.
According to the statement, the Kogi State Government should, as a matter of urgency, consider introducing a comprehensive insurance policy for practicing journalists in the state. It observed that such a gesture would boost the morale, courage, commitment, and professionalism of media practitioners in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
“It has become imperative to appeal to the Kogi State Government to give serious consideration to the issue of insurance cover for practicing journalists. No investment is too much when it comes to safeguarding the lives of media professionals who work tirelessly, often under hazardous conditions, to keep society informed. Such a policy would further demonstrate government’s commitment to the welfare of journalists and strengthen its cordial relationship with the media,” the statement said.
While expressing profound gratitude to God for sparing the lives of members of the Correspondents’ Chapel involved in the accident, the Council prayed against a recurrence of such unfortunate incidents.
The Council also called on the relevant authorities to intensify efforts at checking the excesses of drivers of heavy-duty trucks, particularly those operating along the Obajana Road. It expressed concern over the reckless driving habits of some truck drivers, which it said have continued to pose serious threats to the lives of other road users.
“It is important for the appropriate authorities to address the alarming rate of recklessness among some truck drivers. Their disregard for other road users has resulted in avoidable accidents, loss of lives, and destruction of property. Strict enforcement of traffic regulations and appropriate sanctions against offenders will go a long way in reducing these incidents,” the statement added.
The Council wished all journalists who sustained injuries in the accident a speedy recovery and reaffirmed the commitment of members of the Union to responsible, ethical, and professional journalism despite the risks inherent in the profession.
