Journalist Condemns Dabiri-Erewa’s Remarks on Nigerian Journalism, Demands Public Apology

By Nasiru Hassan 

A Nigerian journalist and press freedom advocate, Livinus Chibuike Victor, has condemned remarks attributed to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, about the state of journalism in Nigeria, demanding a public apology to journalists.

Victor described the remarks as insensitive and dismissive of the contributions of journalists working across the country.

In a statement, the press freedom advocate said it was troubling that Dabiri-Erewa, who previously worked as a broadcaster and journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), would make comments that could be interpreted as discrediting the entire journalism profession.

He argued that although Nigerian journalism faces challenges, including misinformation, ethical violations, political interference and declining professional standards, such problems should be addressed through reforms and stronger professional ethics.

“You cannot discredit the entire profession simply because you are dissatisfied with its present condition. Criticism is legitimate, but it must be responsible, constructive and respectful of the people who continue to keep the profession alive,” Victor said.

He noted that journalists across Nigeria continue to inform the public, expose wrongdoing and hold public officials accountable, often under difficult working conditions and amid threats, harassment and other forms of intimidation.

Victor stressed that the challenges confronting the media should not overshadow the contributions of journalists who continue to perform their professional duties and defend the public’s right to information.

He also cautioned public officials against making sweeping statements that could undermine public confidence in the media, particularly when journalists are facing economic, professional and security challenges.

The advocate urged Dabiri-Erewa to clarify her remarks and issue an unreserved public apology to Nigerian journalists.

He further called on the NiDCOM chief to support initiatives aimed at promoting press freedom, journalist safety, ethical reporting and constructive engagement between government institutions and the media.

Victor maintained that journalism remains an important pillar of democratic governance, providing citizens with information, amplifying marginalised voices and creating opportunities for public scrutiny of those in positions of authority.

The controversy followed remarks attributed to Dabiri-Erewa during a media industry event in Lagos, where she criticised what she described as declining standards and values in journalism and called for greater accountability among media practitioners.

TheFact.ng reported that Victor's statement condemned the remarks and called for a public apology to journalists.