As the #ENDSARS protests in Lagos continue to escalate, Chairman of the Lagos Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Dr Qasim Akinreti offers tips on how journalists and media managers in the state should take necessary precautions.
Dearest colleagues,
As you go out to cover the current developments across Lagos please kindly remember the following;
Carefully understand the environment you are going to cover.
Have all emergency contact numbers
Do not walk alone
Wear your press kits – Jacket with PRESS inscription.
Have your NUJ and office identity cards with you.
Approach everyone politely and o not join in discussion unnecessarily, either to justify or condemn the current situation. Ba good listener.
If you can avoid live reports in volatile areas, please do. Do not become the news or story report. Report the news or story. You must stay alive.
Coverage of EndSARS: Responsibilities of Media Organisations
Ensure the safety of Journalists in your organizations either in the office or on the field,. Here, note that the life insurance policies if Journalists are up-to-date
Provide adequate logistics and conducive environment for Journalists
Let us adhere strictly to the code of Conduct of our profession. Facts are sacred comment Free
let us ensure we don’t escalate the conflicts but de-escalate the conflicts
Dr Qasim Akinreti, Chairman NUJ Lagos State Council
