As Nigerians prepare for the upcoming hunger protest, which is just few hours away, one question begs for an answer.
What is the role of journalists in all of this drama?
You see, in times like this, journalists play a very crucial role in the country.
Also, there are indications that the protest, which is scheduled for August 1 to 10, may turn violent.
This has left many people, especially protesters in high preparation.
Sadly, everyone’s attention is focused on the protesters, and the potential dangers of the protest, no one is talking about the journalists who will be in the field to report the event as they unfold.
Journalists In The Mix
As a matter of fact, journalists are exposed to more threats than protesters.
It is therefore very important for journalists and other media professionals who may be on duty to adopt necessary safety measures to avoid attacks.
The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos, Nigeria shared this warning to journalists via a statement on Wednesday, July 31, 2024.
The protests is scheduled to hold across the 36 states of the country and the FCT.
The August 1 protest, tagged #EndBadGovernanceProtest, is aimed at pushing for a transformative change.
August 1 Protest
Nigerians are demanding a more equitable society with effective leadership, affordable food, zero hunger and a reduced cost of living.
While Nigerians are concerned with the protest, the government says they are concerned about the violence, and the potential consequences of the protest.
However, for Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of IPC, the wellbeing of journalists should be prioritised.
Arogundade said the admonition to journalists has become necessary in the light of previous experiences when journalists were assaulted in the course of legitimate duty.
A Message To Journalists
He said: “We urge all journalists and media practitioners who will be on the field to cover the anticipated nation-wide protests to adopt and implement safety measures while carrying out their activities professionally.”
“Journalists who are to cover the protests should ensure that they are fully kitted and have their identification card clearly displayed.
“This is to avoid situations wherein security agencies may mistake them as protesters and avoid a situation that would make the security agencies to question them, unduly harass, or bar them from performing their duties,” he added.
Furthermore, Arogundade sent a message to stakeholders, especially the security agencies.
He charged them to undertake the performance of their tasks in a civil and responsible manner.
Security Forces
In his words: “The security forces should note that the media plays a critical role in the information dissemination chain.
They are obligated to professionally carry out their task in reporting societal events.
Hence they be accorded due rights and privileges to enable them carry out their social obligations.
The media should be seen as partners in progress and not as adversaries.”
IPC also called on members of the public, including protesters, to recognise the crucial role the media plays.
They also have to protect and support journalists as they report critical events during the protest.
The good news is that IPC, during the 2023 general elections launched a safety and professional advisory.
Also Read: #EndBadGovernanceProtest: 6 Major Steps Tinubu Has Taken To Stop August 1 Protest
The purpose of this was to ensure that journalists who are covering events and discharging their duties are fully equipped with safety tools and precautions to engage with while on the field.
This safety advisory regarding the planned protest is in line with IPC’s mandate to engender the safety of journalists.
It is under the IPC SAFETY OF JOURNALISTS INITIATIVE.
Journalists are advised to make great use of this opportunity, especially when they encounter difficulties.
As a journalist, you may encounter cases of attacks or harassment while covering the protest.
If that happens, you can reach the IPC Safety Alert Desk Helpline via; 08132776441.
