Lagos State Government has joined the rest of the world in marking this year’s Press Freedom Day, which is set aside to show the importance of Press Freedom and its role in effective functioning of society.
Governor Babajide SanwoOluI in a statement signed by the Commissioner of Information & Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, congratulated all journalists on this occasion and promises to ensure that his administration continues to provide a conducive environment for Press Freedom and other rights of the citizenry to thrive.
“We will continue to run an administration under which journalists practise their trade without any fear of intimidation whatsoever”, he said.
The theme of this year’s celebration is: ”Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of Expression, as a Driver for All Human Rights” is apt, considering the role of the media in our democracy, which has taken another step forward, with the successful completion of the general election.
“Journalists should use this occasion to reflect on their noble role as watchdogs of the society. They are to be guided by the ethics of their profession – accuracy, fairness and respect for the truth.
“Besides, fake news is becoming a monster that must be eliminated as its purveyors do great harm to the Press and its Freedom.”
The World Press Freedom Day, which was proclaimed in 1993, is enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.