Auto crash: Kogi journalists seek insurance cover from govt
June 29, 2026 7:05 am
The Kogi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists has called on the state government to establish a comprehensive insurance scheme for practising journalists following a road accident involving members of the Correspondents’ Chapel.
The council made the appeal after journalists were involved in an accident on Obajana Road on Saturday while returning from an official assignment.
In a statement jointly signed by the council’s Chairman, Ademu Haruna, and Secretary, Atuluku Samuel, and made available to journalists in Lokoja on Monday, the union described insurance cover as a necessity given the occupational hazards associated with journalism.
It noted that journalists play a critical role in promoting democracy, accountability and national development and therefore deserve adequate welfare and protection through a structured insurance policy.
The statement urged the state government to establish a comprehensive insurance scheme for practising journalists, saying the initiative would boost the morale, commitment, courage and professionalism of media practitioners in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
“It has become imperative to appeal to the Kogi Government to give serious consideration to insurance cover for practising journalists.
“No investment is too much when it comes to safeguarding the lives of media professionals who work tirelessly, often under hazardous conditions, to keep society informed.
“Such a policy would further demonstrate the government’s commitment to the welfare of journalists and strengthen its cordial relationship with the media,” the statement said.
The council thanked God that members of the Correspondents’ Chapel survived the accident and prayed against a recurrence.
It also urged relevant authorities to intensify efforts to curb the activities of heavy-duty truck drivers on Obajana Road, expressing concern over what it described as the reckless driving habits of some truck drivers.
“It is important for the appropriate authorities to address the alarming rate of recklessness among some truck drivers.
“Their disregard for other road users has resulted in avoidable accidents, loss of lives and destruction of property.
“Strict enforcement of traffic regulations and appropriate sanctions against offenders will go a long way in reducing these incidents,” the statement said.
The council wished journalists injured in the accident a speedy recovery and reaffirmed its commitment to responsible, ethical and professional journalism despite the risks associated with the profession.
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