The Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, Hope Urunwa Okafor, has charged journalists in the state to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, objectivity, and integrity in the discharge of their duties.
The police boss gave the charge during a courtesy visit by members of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists to her office in Abakaliki at the weekend.
Describing journalism as a noble profession, Okafor noted that media practitioners play a critical role as watchdogs of society and must therefore remain committed to truth, accuracy, and fairness in their reportage.
According to her, “Your job as journalists is very critical. It requires a sound mind and a good conscience. You should discharge your duties professionally and be seen by society as people who live above board in the course of your responsibilities.”
The Commissioner condemned the negative perception some members of the public have about the police due to the misconduct of a few officers, stressing that the actions of a handful of erring personnel should not be used to judge the entire force.
She said many police officers have made enormous sacrifices in protecting lives and property across the country and deserve recognition for their dedication and commitment to service.
Okafor reaffirmed her determination to ensure the security of lives and property in Ebonyi State, urging residents to promptly report security concerns within their communities to enable swift police intervention.
She described Ebonyi as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria but expressed concern over the rising cases of violent crimes, including murder, in some parts of the state. The CP solicited the support of journalists in tackling the challenge, assuring that curbing such crimes remains a major priority of her administration.
“I want us to work together to address these security challenges. My goal is to ensure that incidents of violent crimes are significantly reduced before I leave the state,” she stated.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Uchenna Inya, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the police and journalists as partners in promoting peace, security, and development in the state.
Inya commended the Commissioner for her respect for human dignity and her swift intervention in the recent case involving the alleged dehumanization of a child by a prophet in Izzi Local Government Area, which led to the arrest of the cleric and other suspects connected with the incident.
He assured the police command of the continued support and cooperation of journalists in promoting public awareness and fostering a safer society through responsible journalism.
