Livinus Victor condemns Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s remarks On journalism, demands public apology to Nigerian Journalists

Livinus Chibuike Victor, Nigerian Journalist and Press Freedom Advocate, has expressed deep concern over remarks attributed to Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), suggesting that there is no journalism.

He describes such remarks as insensitive, dismissive and deeply troubling, particularly coming from someone whose career was built, in part, on the foundation of journalism.

While acknowledging that journalism, like every other profession, faces serious challenges, Victor insists that it is unacceptable to use sweeping and disparaging language that undermines the credibility, sacrifices and contributions of thousands of journalists working tirelessly across Nigeria.

Before venturing into politics and subsequently becoming a member of the House of Representatives representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency from 2003 to 2015, Abike Dabiri-Erewa established herself as a broadcaster and journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where she became widely recognised for her work as a presenter and anchor of Newsline.

Her professional journey demonstrates the important role journalism can play in shaping public influence, informing citizens and preparing individuals for leadership in public service.

It is therefore disappointing that someone who benefited from the opportunities and public recognition that journalism can provide would make a statement that many journalists could reasonably interpret as an insult to the profession and those who continue to serve within it.

“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 stated.

He stressed that Nigeria’s journalism industry comprises thousands of professionals who work under difficult conditions to inform the public, expose wrongdoing, hold public officials accountable and defend the democratic rights of citizens.

Many journalists face intimidation, harassment, unlawful detention, threats and financial hardship in the course of carrying out their duties. Others have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. Their sacrifices must never be dismissed through careless generalisations about the state of journalism.

Livinus further noted that the courage required to practise journalism in Nigeria cannot be measured solely by the mistakes of some practitioners or the shortcomings of certain media organisations. While ethical violations, misinformation, political interference and declining professional standards deserve serious attention, these challenges should be addressed through reform, accountability and renewed commitment to professional ethics, rather than declarations that suggest the profession has lost its relevance or no longer exists in any meaningful sense.

“If journalism is facing a crisis, the appropriate response is to help rebuild it, strengthen its ethical standards and protect the independence of journalists. It is not to insult those who are still doing the work under difficult circumstances,” he added.

The press freedom advocate emphasised that journalism remains one of the most important pillars of democratic governance. A free and independent press gives citizens access to information, exposes abuses of power, amplifies marginalised voices and provides a platform for public debate.

Without journalism, public accountability becomes weaker, citizens are deprived of reliable information, and those in positions of authority face fewer opportunities to be questioned about their decisions.

Victor also cautioned public officials against making statements that could further undermine public confidence in the media at a time when journalists are already confronting significant professional, economic and security challenges.

He argued that Dabiri-Erewa, having experienced the profession firsthand, should understand the importance of choosing her words carefully, especially when commenting on an industry that contributed significantly to her public visibility before her transition into partisan politics.

“Madam Abike Dabiri-Erewa, you had the opportunity to build a career in journalism before entering the political arena. That history should inspire you to offer constructive criticism, not sweeping statements that leave journalists feeling belittled and disrespected. You may disagree with certain practices in the media, but such disagreements must never become an excuse to diminish the entire profession.”

Victor maintained that no profession is above criticism, including journalism. However, criticism must be fair, specific and informed by an appreciation of the people who continue to perform their duties with integrity, often at considerable personal risk.

He therefore calls on Dabiri-Erewa to clarify her remarks and issue an unreserved public apology to Nigerian journalists for any language that suggests the profession is no longer worthy of respect or has ceased to serve a meaningful purpose.

He further urges her to use her position as a public official to support initiatives that promote media freedom, journalist safety, ethical reporting and constructive engagement between government institutions and the press.

Livinus concluded that journalism is bigger than any individual, political office or administration. People may leave the newsroom for politics, public administration or other careers, but their personal career transitions should never become a justification for disparaging the profession that helped shape their public journey.

“Journalism is not dead. Nigerian journalists are still working, asking difficult questions, exposing wrongdoing and giving a voice to the voiceless. Their contribution to our democracy cannot be erased by a careless statement. The profession deserves reform where necessary, protection where threatened and respect at all times. Abike Dabiri-Erewa owes Nigerian journalists a public apology, and I urge her to demonstrate the leadership and maturity expected of someone entrusted with public responsibility.”

SIGNED:

Livinus Chibuike Victor
Nigerian Journalist and Press Freedom Advocate