By Correspondent in Minna
Most Revd. (Dr) Martins Igwe Uzoukwu, the Catholic Bishop of Catholic Diocece of Minna has blamed politicians and journalists for being privy to what could end many problems facing Nigeria but refused to speak out the truth to end further damage to the nation.
The cleric said if politicians and media practitioners in their ranks could stand on the side of truth, not minding whose ox is gored, “no reason why Nigeria would be in such a fix as it is today or better still, would have a lee way toward ending most of its critical problems.
Bishop Uzoukwu, who spoke at the Saint Michael Cathedral Church, Minna as part of activities to mark the 55th World Communications’ Day, however warmed that, “Whatever we do, we will be accountable to God.”
Speaking on the theme, “Come and see”, at a Media lunch/interactive session with journalists in Niger state, Bishop Uzoukwu observed that what Nigeria needed most was the truth, adding that ‘only the truth can make Nigeria survive or out of the fix’.
He added:“We encourage our politicians to always speak the truth. What Nigeria is going through now will soon come to an end. But Nigerians must speak the truth, because it is only the truth that can salvage the situation we have found ourselves now.
“I want the media to adhere strictly to the tenets of their profession by standing on the side of truth at all times. You must shelve the bad and ugly side, even though the truth is bitter. Say the right thing and speak to your conscience.”
The Diocesesan Communications Director, Revd. Fr. Jude Offor, had earlier explained that the Media had what “it takes to save Nigeria, reminding Journalists that “Whatever you say can either make or mar the Nigerian society”.
Rev.Fr. Offor called on media practioners l to deploy all their writing skills in reaching out to the diverse segments of the Nigerian society, especially the downtrodden and the physically challenged in the society.
He expressed concern that many Journalists of today seemed to have been restricted to serving the interest of government in power at the detriment of the generality of the Nigerian society and therefore wants the trend to change.
Offor reminded journalists of their primary responsibilities which include; serving as voice to the voiceless, a tool of communication dissemination and as well a bridge between government and the governed, the roles he said they must not be abandoned for any reason.
