VP Shettima advocates courageous, responsible journalism as nation’s conscience

By Kunle Sanni

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on media practitioners in Nigeria to prioritize speaking truth to power with objectivity while avoiding antagonism toward the government.

He made this appeal during the launch of Persona Non Grata, a book by veteran journalist Ismail Omipidan, at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel.

The Vice President stressed the importance of distinguishing between constructive criticism and antagonism, noting that constructive criticism advances the nation’s collective interests.

“There is a distinction between antagonizing a government and speaking truth to power. The latter serves a noble purpose, advancing humanity and the greater good. The former, however, is often self-serving and futile, which should not be the goal of our work as journalists,” he said.

Drawing inspiration from The Republic, a Socratic dialogue by Greek philosopher Plato, the Vice President emphasized that building an ideal nation requires intellectuals, especially journalists, to serve as the nation’s conscience.

He added, “Beyond speaking truth to power, we need media professionals to serve as the conscience of our political institutions and the individuals shaping society. No political leader, regardless of their sincerity, can perform beyond the scale of knowledge available to them.”

Shettima highlighted the courage required for journalists to resist compromise in their pursuit of truth. He remarked, “True courage is the ability to tell the truth even in the face of criticism or opposition. Engaging in smear campaigns, despite clear facts, is not courage but cowardice. The distinction between these two traits—courage and cowardice—defines integrity.”

The Vice President urged leaders, media practitioners, and citizens to learn the balance between courage and cowardice. He described the book’s author, Ismail Omipidan, as a journalist who prioritizes allegiance to society over personal interests.

“This awareness defines his work—advocating for a functional, caring, and accountable nation. His book Persona Non Grata highlights the price of adhering to noble principles even in the face of challenges,” Shettima noted.

The Vice President recommended the book as a valuable resource for journalists and professionals seeking a balance between personal allegiance and the pursuit of truth.

“The author of this book, who has consistently contributed to our nation’s discourse, must not be remembered as a provocateur or persona non grata. Instead, he should be recognized as a pillar of our society,” Shettima concluded.

In his welcome remarks, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Isiaka Adegboyega Oyetola, commended Vice President Shettima for attending the book launch despite his demanding schedule. He described the book as a testament to the author’s resilience, integrity, and professional judgment.

“The book, Persona Non Grata, is more than a memoir. It is a profound commentary on the complexities of power and the unseen forces shaping public perception,” Oyetola stated.

The book reviewer, Mr. Lasisi Olagunju, Editor of the Saturday Tribune, noted that the book comprises 31 short chapters with a foreword by Farouk Gberugi. He commended Omipidan’s ability to chronicle his experiences and offer profound insights.

In his vote of thanks, Ismail Omipidan expressed gratitude to Vice President Shettima for honoring his invitation. He recounted their first discussion about writing a book ten years ago, during which Shettima advised him to gain more experience before writing.

Omipidan also acknowledged his time working with Oyetola as Governor of Osun State, describing him as a man of honesty and integrity.

Other dignitaries, including Dr. Mohammed Bulama, Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), and Funke Egbemode, former President of the Guild of Editors, shared anecdotes about Omipidan’s career and his contributions to journalism.

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