By Aliyu DANLADI
Gov. Samuel Ortom of Benue, on Saturday advised journalists to shun unethical conduct that could mar the nobility of the profession.
The governor gave the advice during an oration at the funeral of the Late David Ukuma, who was Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue Council.
The late journalist, of the Radio Benue chapter, was elected into office on July 3, and died of a brief illness on Aug. 25.
According to Ortom, journalism is a noble profession, and if practised according to its ethics, the society will be free from exploitation, deprivation and poor leadership.
“Journalists should be courageous, determined, objective and balanced in their reportorial duties.
“Being confident and truthful are also commendable attributes of good journalists,’’ he said.
Ortom promised that his administration would continue to create an enabling environment for journalists to cover its activities without hindrance.
He described the deceased as a disciplined, brilliant, peaceful and respectful man who would be missed by his family and associates.
The governor said David was a good journalist, resourceful, dynamic, factual, honest and fair, adding that he never misled the public.
He encouraged the family of Late Ukuma not to mourn too much, but take solace in the fact that death is an inevitable end for all, which comes to anyone at a time appointed by God.
Earlier, NUJ Vice President Zone D, Mr Wilson Bako, represented by former NUJ chairman, Benue Council, Mr Kris Atsaka; and Acting Chairman Benue Council, Mr Martins Kajo, commiserated with the family of Ukuma on the loss.
The duo thanked the Governor for standing by the late journalist in sickness and death.
Kajo said the Union had decided to sponsor three children of the deceased in the NUJ Pen Nursery and Primary School,Makurdi, in order to reduce the burden on his wife.
In his sermon, Rev. Father Barnabas Nyam of Quasi Parish, Gbaji Diocese of Katsina-Ala, described death as an inevitable end for everyone and enjoined the congregation to make adequate preparation for it by being righteous, so that when it comes, they will be with Jesus in his Kingdom.
