Yesterday, 2nd May, 2025, the Union of
Campus Journalists(UCJUI), University of Ibadan held a campus-wide rally, joining
the rest of the world in commemorating World Press Day 2025. The train of
journalists converged at the Students’ Union Building before moving to Obafemi
Awolowo Hall where the rally began.
The
rally which kicked off at Obafemi Awolowo Hall saw campus journalists fm
various local press organisations move across the various halls of residence,
sensitizing them on the importance of press freedom in the university and the
country at large.
Speaking to students of the University, the President of
the Union of Campus Journalists, Ogunrinu Olanshile stated that the notion of
press freedom is one that members of the university community should always
embrace.
He
emphasized that the press is not an antagonist to any one and its members in
carrying out their duties are simply helping to hold people in power
accountable.
Aduwo
Ayodele, former E-in-C, IndyPress while speaking stated that no matter what,
the press freedom is non-negotiable.
“Press freedom is non- negotiable. And must be upheld by
the University management and the students.”
Also speaking, the Editor in Chief of UCJUI, Ayeye
Toluwalope stated that people in power are not the only ones guilty of
hampering the freedom of the press, stating that the average student in the
University of Ibadan with their actions are guilty of trying to repress the
press. She enjoined the students to embrace and also push for press freedom
within the university and outside.
“To defend press freedom is to defend democracy, truth,
and the right of every citizen to know what is being done in their name. Let us
not take it for granted. Let us protect it, support it, and never stay silent
when it is under threat.” She stated.
Campus Journalists used the rally as an opportunity to
decry the various physical and online attacks against members of UCJUI.
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