The Kogi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on road safety and law enforcement agencies to clamp down on reckless driving by operators of heavy-duty trucks, following an accident involving members of its Correspondents’ Chapel along the Obajana Road.
The journalists were involved in the accident on Saturday while returning from an official assignment, prompting renewed concerns over the safety of motorists and other road users on one of the state’s busiest highways.
In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Ademu Seidu Haruna, and the Secretary, Dr. Atuluku Samuel, the union expressed gratitude that no lives were lost in the incident, describing the outcome as an act of divine intervention.
The council, however, said the accident underscored the growing danger posed by some truck drivers whose reckless conduct on the highway has continued to result in avoidable crashes, fatalities and destruction of property.
“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,” the statement said.
According to the union, stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and tougher sanctions against offending drivers are necessary to curb the trend and improve safety on major highways across the state.
Beyond concerns over road safety, the NUJ used the occasion to renew its call for comprehensive insurance coverage for practicing journalists, citing the hazardous conditions under which media professionals often operate.
The council noted that journalists routinely face occupational risks while carrying out their constitutional responsibility of informing the public, monitoring governance and promoting accountability.
It argued that adequate insurance protection has become essential for media practitioners who are frequently exposed to accidents, security threats and other work-related dangers.
The union specifically appealed to the Kogi State Government to consider establishing a comprehensive insurance scheme for journalists in the state, describing the move as a critical welfare intervention.
“It has become imperative to appeal to the Kogi State Government to give serious consideration to the issue of insurance cover for practicing 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,” the statement added.
The council maintained that such a policy would not only improve the welfare of journalists but also boost morale, strengthen professionalism and deepen the cordial relationship between government and the media.
While wishing journalists injured in the accident a speedy recovery, the NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to responsible, ethical and professional journalism despite the risks associated with the profession.
The union also urged relevant authorities to take proactive measures to improve safety on the Obajana Road and other major transport corridors in the state to prevent future tragedies.