BY LAW IBITOYE
The Ekiti state Commissioner of police, CP Joseph Eribo, has described journalists as Progressive partners to eradicate crime .
The CP likened the relationship between police and journalists as tyres and rims. He said the two professions needed to complement each other for a crime free society.
CP Eribo disclosed this on Wednesday during the January Congress of the Nigeria Union of Journalists held at the union’s secretariat in Ado Ekiti. While promising to work closely with Ekiti journalists, CP Eribo praised the journalists for projecting the activities of the state police .
According to the CP, the essence of living is to assist others, I will continue to work harmoniously with you and support this noble profession; my door is widely open for advice and collaboration that would guarantee adequate security of lives and properties.
Adding that his command would support the union in areas of need, saying ,I have displayed commitment to journalist welfare in Taraba, Akwa- Ibom and Ekiti will not be an exception. The CP assured.
Earlier, the Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ekiti state Council, Comrade Kayode Babatuyi, had sought the support of the CP to climb down on fake journalists in the state, saying the union is known for developmental journalism which had promoted peace in Ekiti State, if the influx of quacks into this noble profession is not urgently checked, it can destroy the good works of the governor, the NUJ chairman stated.
While commending the CP for working hard to make Ekiti safe since his assumption of office, the NUJ chairman, said several arrests have been made .
Comrade Babatuyi said the new CP had keyed into the cordial relationship that exists between the police force and journalists in the state. He assured the police Boss of journalists unwavering support.
The chairman constituted a taskforce committee on fake journalists/quackery with Godwin Osubu as chairman, Niyi Alade , Secretary, Olubunmi Ibiteye as member, Sunkanmi Ogunmuko and Kolapo Oyeniyi as members
Responding, CP Eribo promised to assist the union checkmate fake journalists, saying, impersonation is a crime that is punishable by law. I want to assure you that if anybody is caught , he or she would be prosecuted . The CP stated.