By GORDI UDEAJAH
Abia state Commissioner of Police ( CP) Danladi Isa has acknowledged the role the media play in policing by disseminating information to the public, describing it as critical.
Speaking when members of the newly elected Executives of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Chapter led by the Chairman Comrade Steve Oko visited the State Police Command, the CP stated that journalists in the State have exhibited professionalism in their practice, describing journalists as one of their crucial partners.
He stated that the security agencies in turn have a responsibility to regularly update the media on developments within the state, urging journalists the State to sustain the truth in their reportage and partnership with the Police, assuring them of necessary support and collaboration that impact effective reportage of the command.
“”The media have remained supportive, even during challenging moments, the command would continue to encourage synergy and excellent working relationship with journalists”. CP Isa stated.
Addressing the CP earlier, Comrade Steve Oko said the visit was to introduce the new executives to the CP and familiarize with the Command, identify areas of mutual interest, and seek collaboration.
Comrade Oko who said that journalists cannot practice professionally if the environment is not safe and conducive, commended the state Police Command for ensuring the safety and security of the state
He however decried that most often the state Police Command sidelined members of the Chapel during Police press conferences especially those that featured arrest and parading of crime suspects.
Hammering on the need for change of this practice , Comrade Oko informed the CP why every member of the Chapel ought to be carried along in Police activities.
He said that each Chapel member represents a media House whose Headquarters are outside Abia state. And that each member is expected to cover and send stories emanating from the state including the police, to his or her headquarters, stressing that any member that fails to file such reports would risk official sanction
Comrade Oko.therefore assured the CP of the Chapel’s maximum support, as it had done to previous Commissioners of Police in the state, noting that no CP that passed through Abia state, was not later rewarded with higher rank thereafter.
