By Wandoo Sombo
Mr Olakunle Olasanmi, the new Chairman of the National Association of Judiciary Correspondents (NAJUC), Abuja chapter, has tasked members to uphold accuracy and professionalism in reporting court proceedings, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Olasanmi, in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday in Abuja, said accurate and factual court reporting had become more critical in view of the prevalent misrepresentation of court pronouncements by politicians and other stakeholders.
He said that judicial reporting remained one of the most sensitive beats in journalism, stressing the importance of factual and objective report of court proceedings .
According to him, this will help to curb fake news and deliberate distortion of rulings and judgments of courts.
The chairman assured NAJUC members that the new leadership would work closely with stakeholders in the judiciary and security agencies to curb the spread of fake news and check the activities of unaccredited journalists covering court proceedings.
According to him, the new executive is committed to leaving a remarkable legacy by the end of its tenure.
“As part of our plans to hit the ground running, we intend to settle all outstanding welfare obligations owed to members who have celebrated milestones such as marriages, childbirth and bereavement within the next one month,” he said.
Olasanmi also announced the constitution of a three-man Standing Committee to support the executive whenever necessary.
The committee comprises Joseph Kadiri, Benjamin Ejike and Garry Ochigbo.
He said the association would also revisit the recommendations of its Constitution Review Committee at its next Congress to consider appropriate amendments.
“There is no doubt that our constitution requires some amendments, but such changes can only be effected through congress, where every member will have the opportunity to contribute,” he said.
The chairman thanked members of the association and all those who supported his emergence, promising not to disappoint them.
He also commended the immediate past executive for what he described as a commendable service to the association.
The News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN) reports that other new executive members are; Emmanuella Ekele, Vice Chairman; Alexander Enumah, General Secretary; and Godfrey Eshiemoghe, Assistant Secretary.
Others are Wandoo Sombo, Treasurer; Austin Okezie, Financial Secretary; Oluwafemi Kuku, Welfare Officer; and Garry Ochigbo, Provost. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Bayo Sekoni