By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar
The newly appointed Commissioner for Information in Cross River State, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham, has described the recent deaths of two veteran journalists in the state as a painful reminder of the transient nature of life and the importance of the impact individuals make on society.
The deceased journalists are Francis Ogar, formerly of Daily Asset newspaper, and Anietie Ben Akpan, former South-South Bureau Chief of The Guardian and later Editor-in-Chief of Pillar Today.
Cobham spoke during his maiden visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council Secretariat in Calabar, where he joined journalists in mourning their departed colleagues.
He described journalists as the conscience of society, noting that through their professional practice, they hold public office holders accountable and help ensure that government remains responsive to the needs of the people.
He said the contributions of Ogar and Akpan to journalism and society would remain indelible, adding that their memories would continue to live through the impact they made during their lifetime.
The Commissioner pledged to establish a stronger working relationship with journalists and media practitioners in the state, promising constructive engagement, improved information dissemination and strategic partnership between government and the media.
He said the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu was media-friendly and would continue to support effective collaboration with journalists, while assuring the NUJ of an open-door policy.
“I believe it is destined that at this point in time and in this season, I should lead the media of the Cross River State Government. My strength lies in my confidence in you, and we are going to partner together to promote the image of Cross River State,” he said.
Cobham also called for constructive engagement between government and the media, saying he would discourage antagonism and instead promote a relationship that would enable journalists to effectively perform their watchdog role.
He stressed the need for accurate and timely government responses to issues raised in the public space, warning that silence could allow misinformation to gain traction.
“Under my watch, there will be a different season of strategic engagement in our information dissemination.
“If you do not answer the questions, you are simply giving the impression that the opinion held out there is correct. If the opinion is not correct, then you must stay on the issue and address it adequately,” he said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the NUJ, Cross River State Council, commended the Commissioner for identifying with the union at a difficult moment, describing the deceased journalists as strong pillars who contributed significantly to the profession and touched many lives.
He said the union would work closely with the families of the deceased on funeral arrangements and keep members informed as details emerge.
