The Abia State commissioner of Police, Kenechukwu Onwuemelie has tasked the members of the Online Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria, OMPAN, Abia State chapter on professionalism in the discharge of their duties, just as he commended them for being proactive in their duties.
CP Kenechukwu gave the commendation on Monday during a courtesy visit by members of OMPAN to the Commissioner of Police at the Abia State Police Command Headquarters Umuahia, the state capital.
While commending OMPAN members for the visit, CP Kenechukwu also advised that they should use the advantage of their medium to promote factual reportage, professionalism and to also stand firm as the watchdog of the society, adding that “it will be to the advantage OMPAN members, especially in the use of the online media which is now referred to as new media”.
“It is for your own advantage because you are the ones who truly speak for the people.
“In many cases, news coming from your platforms actually makes a wider audience. The mainstream media has also recognized the importance of this, some of them now have segments dedicated to online media, so nobody can play down on your importance.” CP Kenechukwu said.
CP Kenechukwu who stated the readiness of the command to partner OMPAN on information gathering, dissemination and policing of Abia State in order to keep Abia safer for the citizens said “You are not taking your job likely and I like it, we need to be up on our toes.
“I’m also happy that you know that we need to be partners. Let’s also know that the bottom line is the benefit of the people. I assure you of our support and continued collaboration.” CP Kenechukwu said.
OMPAN Chairman, Chief Promise Uzoma Okoro in his speech said OMPAN members were in his office to seek synergy with the command and to show support in the command’s effort in its fight against fake news and criminality in the state.
He also appreciated the leadership nature of the CP, which he noted to have help to ensure the relative peace in the state, stating that OMPAN is happy to be part of his career success story.