Nigerian journalist and press freedom advocate Livinus Chibuike Victor has called on the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, to clarify her reported remarks about journalism and issue a public apology to Nigerian journalists.
In a statement issued for immediate release, Victor expressed concern over remarks attributed to Dabiri-Erewa suggesting that journalism no longer exists, describing the comments as dismissive of the contributions of journalists and the challenges they face in the course of their duties.
He acknowledged that the media industry faces several challenges, including ethical concerns, misinformation, political interference and declining professional standards in some quarters. However, he argued that such issues should be addressed through reforms and accountability rather than sweeping statements that could undermine the entire profession.
Victor recalled that Dabiri-Erewa worked as a broadcaster and journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where she gained recognition as a presenter and anchor of the programme Newsline, before venturing into politics.
She subsequently represented Ikorodu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2003 to 2015 before becoming a public official.
According to Victor, her professional background makes it important for her to approach discussions about journalism with an appreciation of the role the media plays in informing citizens and promoting accountability.
“You cannot discredit the entire profession simply because you are dissatisfied with its present condition. Criticism is legitimate, but it must be responsible, constructive and respectful of the people who continue to keep the profession alive,” he said.
Nigerian Journalists Face Difficult Working Conditions
Victor said journalists across Nigeria continue to work under difficult conditions to inform the public, investigate wrongdoing, scrutinise government activities and protect citizens’ democratic rights.
He noted that some media professionals face intimidation, harassment, threats, unlawful detention and financial hardship while carrying out their responsibilities. Others, he added, have lost their lives in the line of duty.
He maintained that these challenges should not be used to dismiss the contributions of journalists who continue to serve the public with professionalism and integrity.
The press freedom advocate stressed that problems within the media industry require deliberate efforts to improve ethical standards, strengthen professional accountability and protect editorial independence.
“If journalism is facing a crisis, the appropriate response is to help rebuild it, strengthen its ethical standards and protect the independence of journalists. It is not to insult those who are still doing the work under difficult circumstances,” Victor stated.
Journalism Remains Important to Democracy
Victor described journalism as an important pillar of democratic governance, noting that a free and independent press enables citizens to access information, exposes abuses of power and provides a platform for public debate.
He warned that undermining public confidence in the media could weaken accountability and make it more difficult for citizens to question decisions made by those in positions of authority.
He also urged public officials to exercise caution when commenting on the media, particularly at a time when journalists face economic, professional and security challenges.
According to him, criticism of the media should be specific, fair and constructive, rather than directed at the profession as a whole.
Victor further argued that Dabiri-Erewa’s experience in broadcasting should encourage her to support efforts to improve journalism and promote constructive engagement between government institutions and media organisations.
“You may disagree with certain practices in the media, but such disagreements must never become an excuse to diminish the entire profession,” he said.
Victor Calls for Clarification and Public Apology
Victor called on Dabiri-Erewa to clarify the remarks attributed to her and issue an unreserved public apology to Nigerian journalists over language he believes could be interpreted as disrespectful to the profession.
He also urged the NiDCOM chief executive to use her public position to support media freedom, journalist safety, ethical reporting and stronger relations between government institutions and the press.
While acknowledging that journalism, like other professions, is not beyond criticism, Victor maintained that reforms should focus on addressing specific shortcomings while recognising the contributions of practitioners who uphold professional standards.
He concluded that journalism is bigger than any individual, political office or administration, adding that people who leave the newsroom for politics or public service should continue to recognise the importance of the profession to society.
“Journalism is not dead. Nigerian journalists are still working, asking difficult questions, exposing wrongdoing and giving a voice to the voiceless. Their contribution to our democracy cannot be erased by a careless statement,” he said.
Victor reiterated his call for a public apology, urging Dabiri-Erewa to demonstrate support for a media industry that continues to play a significant role in Nigeria’s democratic development.