Abuja—Senator Douye Diri, Executive Governor of Bayelsa state, has opined that a free press in a democratic nation plays a key role in its development.
The governor made this known on Monday when he was honoured at the House of Representatives Press Corps’ Annual Dinner and Award ceremonies.
According to his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, the governor said, he is delighted over the development of the Nigerian press over the years.
Thanking the House of Reps Press Corps for his “Pride of The House of Representatives Award,” Diri called for more effort towards reconciliation in the country for the interest of national unity.
“I am happy that my colleagues in the House still recognize our efforts. I am happy that they have their eagle eyes on me and our state and it would spur us to more action.
“I was shocked when I saw the level of what we have done recorded by the House of Representatives Press Corps. That is why we always advocate for freedom of the press. There is nowhere there is absolute freedom but we must allow the press to be free and open.
“I believe that this is a great country. I believe in the unity of this country but the proviso is that there must always be justice and equity,” Diri stated.
