The Catholic Bishop of Ondo diocese, Right Reverend Jude Arogundade has urged journalists to facilitate a national dialogue to address myriad of problems facing the country, especially insecurity and corruption.
Bishop Arogundade made the call in a message at a special service commemorating this year’s World Communication day, held at the Sacred heart cathedral, Akure.
He urged the media to communicate messages of love, hope, peace, and unity to the world.
According to him, war is unnecessary because it cannot bring peace; rather, there is a need for roundtable discussions to address the challenges confronting the nation.
Speaking on the theme “share with gentleness this hope that is in your hearts”, Bishop Arogundade lamented the incessant killing of farmers by herdsmen, which he noted had driven many farmers out of their farmlands while kidnapping continued unabated across the country.
Bishop Arogundade also called on media professionals to adopt solutions journalism, which he described as crucial for raising public awareness about the positive initiatives undertaken by the government.
He encouraged journalists to promote peace and initiate dialogues rooted in love and integrity to help cultivate harmony in the country, emphasising the need for collective efforts to build a better nation.
The Bishop also bemoaned the high level of corruption in the country, saying it has become the “oxygen” of the nation.
He urged the media to always speak truth to power, insisting that things cannot continue as they are.
Bishop Arogundade expressed concern over the persistent attacks by herders, noting that these incidents have not only hindered the nation’s progress but have also forced people to flee from their farms, with grave consequences.
He called on the government and community leaders to engage in constructive dialogue with herders, particularly in Ondo State, to foster peace and stability, allowing society to advance.
The Bishop highlighted that embracing dialogue is essential for understanding the mindset of those contributing to the nation’s insecurity.
He also stressed that individuals should not hoard resources meant for the common good and urged journalists to report societal injustices.
Bishop Arogundade condemned the cruel treatment and injustices inflicted by the wealthy elite on the vulnerable.
He stated: “If a particular group decides to make the country ungovernable, we must question their intentions and goals. Our people can no longer farm or provide for themselves. Travelling has become a source of fear and anxiety.”
“This is not the Nigeria we envisioned building together. Anyone who believes they can claim ownership of this country for themselves or their tribe is mistaken. We must unite to create a nation we can all enjoy.”
He urged journalists nationwide to foster sustainable dialogue that understands the sentiments of all citizens and communicates in ways that uplift and invigorate communities.
In his address, Prince Leke Adegbite, chairman of the NUJ Ondo State Council, described World Communication Day as an opportunity for media professionals worldwide to reflect on their societal responsibilities.
Adegbite, who led journalists to the occasion said the world communication day reminded media professionals of their responsibilities to the society.
He noted that this year’s focus was on leveraging communication to mitigate aggression and address societal crises, highlighting its potential to promote peace.
Adegbite acknowledged the media’s role in managing security challenges in the state, emphasising the importance of responsible reporting to benefit the community. “We have been managing various issues to protect our society, ensuring that what needs to be shared is made accessible to the public,” he said.
