Kogi Journalists Seek Government Insurance Cover After Road Crash
Journalists in Kogi State have appealed to the state government to establish a comprehensive insurance scheme for media practitioners following a recent road accident involving members of the profession.
The appeal comes amid growing concerns over the occupational hazards journalists face in the course of gathering and reporting news, particularly while covering official assignments and breaking events across the state.
The journalists noted that the recent auto crash has highlighted the vulnerability of media professionals, who often travel long distances under challenging conditions to keep the public informed.
They stressed that, like other public servants exposed to occupational risks, journalists deserve adequate welfare protection, including health and accident insurance, to cushion the impact of injuries, disability or loss of life sustained in the line of duty.
The media practitioners urged the Kogi State Government to prioritise the welfare of journalists by introducing a robust insurance policy that would provide financial security for affected personnel and their families.
According to them, such a scheme would not only boost the morale of journalists but also enable them to discharge their constitutional responsibility without the constant fear of financial hardship in the event of accidents or other work-related emergencies.
They further called on media owners, professional bodies and other stakeholders to work with the government in developing sustainable welfare programmes aimed at improving the safety, wellbeing and productivity of journalists.
The appeal underscores the growing demand for stronger social protection measures for journalists, whose work frequently exposes them to road accidents, security threats and other occupational hazards while serving the public.
