Gentlemen of the Press,
I count it a great privilege to be here today, as the chair of this auspicious event, The 37th Edition of The Frontliners,the flagship program of League of Veteran Journalists Osun state. Today, we all gather here, as journalists to critically assess our roles and duties towards preserving the democracy of our great nation. I must note that this gathering is a part of our surveillance function to the society, to help keep people informed about the state of affairs in the state, and the country at large.
The media is described as the Fourth Estate of the realm, which implies that like other arms of government, it plays a crucial role in holding those in power accountable for their actions, and ensure that those elected into power, act in the best interest of the people. This spells the need for us to constantly be on our toes in fulfilment of our calling.
The relationship between the media and the legislature cannot be jettisoned because the media has the power to shape public opinion, sway political discourse. Today, we feature a member of the Osun state House of Assembly to respond to contending Political issue in the state. It is apparent that attitude towards the state legislature is affected by knowledge. Thus, the more people know about a state legislature, the more positive they are in their attitude towards it. I, therefore, implore us all, to factor in the intricacies of position as watchdogs of the society, in bringing desired change to the state.
As veterans in the profession, we must remember the words of Joseph Pulitzer, “a Republic and its Press will rise and fall together.” We embody the needed expertise and knowledge to move this state forward, through projection of credible, factual and credible information. Therefore, let us harness this power in furthermore of a common goal for the development of this great state.
Once again, I welcome you all.
