By Lukman Olabiyi
The Journalists for Democratic Rights (JODER) has strongly condemned the alleged harassment of journalists by the Chief Security Officer (CSO), Kunle Fagbemi, to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
In a statement released by Executive Director of JODER, yesterday, Mr Adewale Adeoye, expressed concern over what he described as a growing pattern of hostility by aides of politically exposed persons toward journalists, which he attributed to a lack of proper training in media relations and democratic engagement.
“It is unfortunate that some aides to public officials see journalists as threats. This reflects poor training and a fundamental misunderstanding of the role of the media in a democratic society,” Adeoye said.
He emphasized that journalists serve as vital links between the government and the people, and that a strong and vibrant media is essential to the survival of any democracy.
“The CSO, Fagbemi, appears to have a very poor understanding of the role of the media in nation-building. Modern CSOs are not trained to protect the governor alone but also to uphold democratic institutions, including the media,” he said.
Adeoye stressed that if the allegations against the CSO are true, his conduct is not only condemnable but also constitutes a disservice to the office of the governor.
“A well-trained CSO should understand that part of their responsibility is to protect the state and all democratic institutions. The reported actions, if verified, are shameful and undermine the values of good governance,” he added.
He further urged Governor Sanwo-Olu to consider organizing regular training and retraining for his immediate aides, particularly the CSO, to ensure they understand their roles within a democratic setting.
JODER reiterated its commitment to press freedom and urged public office holders and their aides to treat journalists with respect and as key stakeholders in democratic governance.
