Vice-President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerian journalists to focus on speaking truth to power objectively without antagonising the government.
He made this appeal at the launch of ‘Persona Non Grata’, a book by a journalist, Isma’il Omipidan, which was held at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
Drawing the distinction between antagonism and speaking truth to power, Shettima also urged members of the fourth estate of the realm to, as a matter of necessity, always strive to strike a balance between their allegiance to self and to truth.
He emphasised the need for the media to balance self-interest with truth, noting that speaking truth to power serves a greater good, unlike antagonism, which he described as self-serving and futile.
Taking a leaf from a Socratic dialogue, ‘The Republic’, written by the Greek Philosopher Plato, the Vice-President pointed out that to really build a nation that can best be described as an ideal state, the intellectual class, especially the journalists, must be allowed to be the nation’s conscience.
Categorically, the VP told the journalists that apart from speaking truth to power, the nation also needs them, as media professionals, to serve as the country’s conscience. “True courage lies in resisting compromise and standing for truth, even in hostile environments”, Shettima said, encouraging media professionals to distinguish between courage and cowardice.
He praised Omipidan’s book as a testament to integrity and resilience in journalism, recommending it to professionals seeking to navigate the balance between personal values and societal responsibilities.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Isiaka Oyetola, and other dignitaries lauded the book for its insights into power and public perception.
Omipidan expressed gratitude to Shettima and other guests, reflecting on his journey as a journalist and his commitment to truth and integrity.
