The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, has called on Journalists to always ensure they get their facts right before going public.
Mr Gbajabiamila made the call at the inauguration of the new Executives of the House of Representatives Press Corps and the launch of its maiden magazine “Green Sentinel” and its website at the National Assembly.
The Speaker, who was represented by the Deputy Speaker, Ahmed Wase, said the House was always ready to provide any information required by journalists.
“I urge you to use available opportunities of cross checking your facts. Our doors are always wide open. Nothing is done is secrect because we believe in communication. Communication is power. Where you lack communication there would be gaps,” He said.
The Chairperson of the Press Corps, Comrade Grace Ike, thanked the leadership of the House for their assistance and cooperation with the Corps, saying they have been part of its achievements.
Comrade Ike described the occasion as another milestone for parliamentary reporters to be responsive, responsible, engaging and keeping time for posterity.
Comerade Ike said it was the first time in the history of the House of Representatives Press Corps and indeed the Press Corps in National Assembly, a female was being sworn in back-to-back as chairman.
She said, the step was a confirmation that the Press Corps remained gender-sensitive.
The Spokesperson of the House, Mr Benjamin Kalu, said that the press corps was independent as the House does not interfere in its activities.
Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Emmanuel Ogbeche, called for balance reportage.
RN
