Professor Shola Omotola, a former Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti, emphasized the importance of journalists in Nigeria speaking truth to power. He urged them to hold political leaders accountable for their actions to facilitate genuine development in the country.
Speaking at a retreat organized by the Senate Press Corps in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Professor Omotola presented a paper titled ‘Developmental Impact of the Executive on Nigeria’s Democracy, 1999 – 2024’. In his paper, he highlighted how successive federal governments since May 1999 have made efforts to drive development but have fallen short in poverty alleviation.
He expressed his belief that the failure of past administrations to effectively address poverty has weakened the concept of democracy and the aspirations of the Nigerian people. The theme of the retreat, ‘Democracy and Development: How far, so far, for Nigeria?’, was deemed highly relevant by Omotola.
According to the professor, democracy and development are intertwined and must progress in tandem. He stressed the need for Nigerian journalists to be the voice that challenges those in power to ensure the advancement of the country.
Highlighting the essence of development as the improvement of living standards for the people, Omotola underscored the role of journalists as society’s watchdogs. He emphasized the importance of journalists uncovering obstacles to development such as corruption and flawed policies.
While acknowledging that Nigeria has sustained democracy for over 24 years, Omotola expressed optimism that continued democratic governance would pave the way for development in the country.
During the retreat, the President of the Senate, represented by Senator Yemi Adaramodu, assured journalists of access to information in line with the Freedom of Information Act. The Clerk to the National Assembly, represented by Mr Ali Umar, pledged to provide a conducive working environment for journalists to report objectively and fairly.