The dialogue regarding the perceived lawlessness within the military and the recent ordeal of First News Online Editor, Mr. Segun Ọlatunji, who was detained after being abducted by armed soldiers, will gain further traction during the upcoming edition of the widely followed monthly interview series, BOILING POINT ARENA, scheduled for Sunday, April 14, 2024.
Prominent Kaduna-based activist, Senator Shehu Sani, and former Deputy Editor-in-chief and Chairman, Editorial Board of Punch Newspapers, Mr. Bola Bolawole, will serve as guest speakers/discussants for the online event. The session will be conducted via Zoom and broadcast live on Sweet 107.1FM, spanning a two-hour duration starting at 8 pm.
This edition marks the 18th installment of the program since its inception in November 2022. The focal point of discussion will be “Democracy: The Media Under Siege? Travails of Journalist Segun Olatunji in Military Detention.”
Senator Sani and Mr. Bolawole will provide insights into the threats posed to Nigeria’s democratic principles by the suppression of freedom of expression and press freedom exemplified by the concerning abduction of Journalist Ọlatunji and subsequent release.
Furthermore, attention will be drawn to the necessity for the complete subordination of the armed forces to democratic authorities and judicial institutions.
The keynote address will be delivered by the distinguished traditional ruler, Oba Prof Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, in his capacity as Chairman of the Boiling Point Council of Royals and Elders.
According to Mr. Eddy Ademosu, Chair of the Organizing Committee, and a renowned Public Relations Icon in Nigeria, the interview discourse will particularly explore avenues for a more effective strategy to address insecurity in the country while minimizing the overt presence of soldiers involved in civilian operations.
Mr. Ademosu also commended the management of Sweet FM, led by its promoter, Senator Olugbenga Obadara, for their support in championing worthy causes by partnering with the Boiling Point platform to expand the program’s audience reach through terrestrial and online channels.