Journalists Should Never Be Treated As Beggars But Professionals Deserving Respect, Saya Disu

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Ridwan Disu, has said journalists in Nigeria should never be treated as beggars but as professionals who deserve dignity, recognition and utmost respect in the discharge of their duties.

Disu made the remark while addressing members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) during a congress of its Federal Capital Territory Council in Abuja.

The police chief emphasised that journalists play a vital role in strengthening democracy, informing citizens and holding institutions accountable, noting that their contributions to national development cannot be overstated. According to him, the media remains a strategic partner in promoting public awareness and supporting efforts to improve security across the country.

He therefore urged Nigerians, particularly public officials and security agencies, to accord journalists the respect they deserve, stressing that treating members of the press as beggars undermines the integrity and professionalism of the media.

Disu also called for stronger collaboration between the police and the media, saying improved engagement would enhance the dissemination of accurate information on security matters and help build trust between law enforcement agencies and the public. Earlier, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Council, Grace Ike, commended the Inspector-General for his support for the media and commitment to strengthening the relationship between journalists and the police.

She reaffirmed the union’s readiness to continue working with security agencies to promote responsible journalism and enhance public awareness on issues relating to national security and development.