Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom, Justice Ekaete Fabian-Obot
By Dianabasi Effiong
The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom, Justice Ekaete Fabian-Obot, has charged Journalists to avoid publishing news items that defame or damage the reputation of other members of society.
She gave the warning on Tuesday in Uyo when members of the State Working Committee (SWC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by the Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, paid her a courtesy visit in her Chambers.
She said that journalists should always respect and protect the right to human dignity in the discharge of their duties.
She said that the pen remained a very powerful tool.
“You can destroy somebody with the pen and the person could lose their self-confidence for life. You can damage a person mentally and spiritually with just a pen. You must respect and protect the right to human dignity in the discharge of your duties.
“The dignity of an individual must never be compromised or traded for any reason, regardless of the circumstances,” Fabian-Obot said.
She also said that journalists, as the conscience of society, should uphold the highest standards of professionalism by verifying facts, hearing all sides to a story, and exercising patience when challenges arise in reaching concerned parties.
The Chief Judge also said that defamatory reports could erode confidence, damage reputations, and undermine public trust.
She expressed delight over the visit by the SWC of the union.
“I am delighted to receive this delegation today. I encourage you to remain true to the teachings and etiquette of your profession, because professionalism is the hallmark of an excellent practitioner,” she said.
She advised journalists to practice what she called safe and clean journalism that would build their reputation.
Earlier in his address, Comrade John, extolled the Chief Judge’s motherly virtues since assuming office, describing her tenure as impactful and reform-driven.
He commended her contributions to the judiciary, particularly in the areas of infrastructure development, speedy dispensation of justice, decency, and enhanced welfare for workers in the judiciary.
The NUJ Chairman also called for improved synergy and partnership between the judiciary and the media through regular engagements.
He said that such collaboration would help to foster a more progressive society.
He also appealed to the Chief Judge to consider capacity-building initiatives for journalists who specialise in judiciary and crime reporting.
