By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
A road accident involving members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Kogi State has reignited concerns over the welfare and safety of journalists, with the union calling for a comprehensive insurance scheme to protect media practitioners exposed to occupational hazards.
The Kogi State Council of the NUJ said the crash, which occurred along the Obajana Road on Saturday while journalists were returning from an official assignment, highlighted the vulnerability of media professionals who routinely travel long distances and operate under risky conditions in pursuit of news.
In a statement signed by the Council Chairman, Alhaji Ademu Seidu Haruna, and Secretary, Dr. Atuluku Samuel, the union argued that journalists remain among the least protected professionals despite the critical role they play in sustaining democracy and promoting public accountability.
The council said the narrow escape recorded by members of the Correspondents’ Chapel should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritise the welfare and protection of media practitioners.
According to the NUJ, insurance coverage for journalists should no longer be treated as an optional benefit but as an essential safeguard for professionals whose duties frequently expose them to accidents, security threats and other workplace dangers.
“Journalists work tirelessly, often under hazardous conditions, to keep society informed. No investment is too much when it comes to safeguarding the lives of media professionals,” the statement said.
The union urged the Kogi State Government to establish a comprehensive insurance package for practising journalists, arguing that such a policy would boost morale, enhance professionalism and demonstrate government’s commitment to press freedom and media welfare.
Beyond the call for insurance protection, the council expressed concern over the activities of some heavy-duty truck drivers operating along the Obajana highway, describing reckless driving as a growing threat to motorists and commuters.
The union called on relevant traffic and law enforcement agencies to strengthen enforcement of road safety regulations and impose sanctions on drivers whose actions endanger lives.
While expressing gratitude that no life was lost in the accident involving the correspondents, the council prayed for the speedy recovery of those who sustained injuries and called for greater attention to the safety of journalists on official assignments.
The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to ethical and professional journalism, noting that despite the dangers associated with the profession, journalists would continue to perform their constitutional duty of informing the public and holding institutions accountable.
For the union, however, the incident has once again raised a fundamental question: who protects those whose job is to keep society informed?