By Banji Ayoola
In their homogeneous volition to promote justice, the rule of law and good governance in Ondo State, the state’s chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, and Akure chapter of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, have resolved to join forces in the fight to ensure a better society.
In fact, both bodies, which met at the NUJ Press Centre in Akure, have jointly resolved to commit themselves to strengthening the long-standing ties between Journalism and the Law profession in crusading for justice, equity, and good governance.
Particularly, the two professions resolved to build on their historical collaborative struggle spanning many decades even before Nigeria gained independence from colonial Britain in 1960, in checking the excesses of political leaders, whether appointed, elected, or dictatorial, and ensure that they truly care for the people who eagerly look unto their leaders full of hope.
The NUJ, led by its state chairman, Prince Leke Adegbite, and the NBA, led by its Akure chapter chairman, Mr, Oju Kekemeke, resolved also to deepen their long-term relationship, aimed towards achieving their joint goals as declared above.
Both unions took these decisions during a courtesy visit to the NUJ Press Centre by Kekemeke and his executives, their first point of call after their inauguration.
In his speech at the occasion, Kekemeke stressed that the visit was significant as it reflected the branch’s recognition of the media as an important partner in advancing the interests of society.
He noted that although lawyers and journalists operated in different professional spaces, both had important responsibilities to society, particularly in promoting justice, protecting rights and ensuring accountability.
According to him, lawyers serve as advocates for justice and the rule of law, while journalists provide citizens with information and play a critical role in holding institutions accountable.
His words, “Where the rule of law is weak, both institutions suffer. Where citizens are uninformed, justice becomes inaccessible. And where public institutions are not sufficiently accountable, democracy and good governance are weakened.”
He proposed a deliberate partnership between the two institutions, identifying public legal education, capacity building for Journalists on legal reporting, access to justice and protection of fundamental rights, promotion of rule of law and good governance, as well as mutual institutional support and communication as key areas of collaboration.
Kekemeke said the NBA is ready to make lawyers available for radio and television programmes, public lectures and other platforms to educate citizens on their rights and responsibilities.
He also proposed periodic training sessions for journalists covering courts and legal matters, noting that such training would help media practitioners better understand legal principles and procedures, including fair hearing, presumption of innocence, contempt and sub judice.
The NBA chairman further called for collaboration on issues affecting access to justice and vulnerable members of society, as well as initiatives aimed at promoting constitutionalism, accountability and respect for judicial decisions.
He proposed that both organisations designate liaison persons to facilitate prompt and responsible communication whenever important legal or public-interest issues arise.
Also, he suggested the establishment of an annual Bar-Media Forum on Justice, Rule of Law and Good Governance in Ondo State.
He said the objective is to build “a better-informed citizenry, a stronger justice system and a more accountable society.”
Responding, the Chairman the NUJ Chairman State, commended the NBA Akure Branch for making the union its first point of call after its inauguration, describing the visit as an indication of the importance attached to the media by the legal profession.
Adegbite expressed the union’s readiness to work with the NBA in areas that would strengthen professional capacity, improve public understanding of legal matters and promote accountability and good governance.
He noted that journalists, particularly those covering the judiciary, need a proper understanding of legal processes and terminologies to ensure accurate and responsible reporting.
The NUJ chairman welcomed the proposed training for journalists, saying the union would support initiatives that would improve the quality of legal and court reporting in the state.
He also stressed the need for both professions to maintain their independence and professional ethics, while working together in the public interest.
Adegbite said the media remains committed to giving adequate attention to issues of justice, human rights and good governance, adding that effective collaboration with the Bar would further enhance the ability of journalists to inform the public accurately.
He expressed optimism that the proposed Bar-Media Forum and other areas of collaboration would provide a sustainable platform for both institutions to exchange ideas and address issues affecting society.
