Stakeholders calls for support of families of deceased journalists

Stakeholders in Ogun State have called for the support of families of journalists, highlighting the need for a safety net for those who give voice to the voiceless in society.

They made the call on Thursday at the inaugural empowerment programme for families of deceased journalists in Ogun State, held in Abeokuta, the state capital.

Speaking at the event, the Ogun State Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya, stated that consideration should be given to the creation of welfare programs, insurance plans, scholarship funds, and other initiatives for journalists’ spouses and children.

Onasanya, lamenting that journalists are often exposed to occupational hazards—including threats to their lives, job insecurity, poor remuneration, harassment, and mental and emotional strain—harped on the need to address their concerns.

He maintained that when journalists know their families will not be abandoned in times of distress, they will perform their duties with greater commitment and confidence.

Onasanya said, “The unfortunate reality is that a good number of journalists labor tirelessly but often lack the financial security to cater to their families when misfortune strikes. Should journalists labor in vain? Should their families suffer after their demise? These are critical questions we must ponder as we deliberate on sustainable ways to support media practitioners and their families.

“Journalists hold power to account and give a voice to the voiceless, yet the sacrifices of journalists are often overlooked. It is imperative that the contributions of journalists to society are not ignored and that their families are not left in despair when tragedy strikes.

“It is high time we take a bold step in addressing these concerns and ensure better welfare for those who dedicate their lives to informing the public.”

In her welcome address, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Comrade Olufunke Fadugba, said the program was dedicated to the upliftment of families of deceased journalists.

The programme, themed Oniroyin Support Initiative, also featured a free medical outreach for all journalists.

Fadugba urged journalists to prioritize their health and well-being, stressing that as media practitioners, “Nobody speaks for us when we are in trouble, but when something happens to others, we are there to voice it out.”

The Consultant to the Governor on Media and Communications, Tunde Oladunjoye, who is the convener of the initiative, appreciated Governor Abiodun and the Ministry of Health for collaborating to provide free medical outreach for journalists.

Oladunjoye asserted that the initiative, which saw the distribution of ₦50,000 each to 20 beneficiaries, was a means of giving back to society, adding that whatever he has become today is a result of journalism, not politics.

He urged the beneficiaries not to lose hope and appealed to members of the public to always show concern and check on families who have lost their loved ones.

Other dignitaries at the event included the wife of former Nigerian President, Mrs. Bola Obasanjo; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports, Lanre Ogunyinka; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Oluwatoyin Adewole; CEO of Pelican Valley, Babatunde Adeyemo; and former NBC Director, Eddy Aina, among others.