By Kingsley Agim
Ahead of the World Press Freedom Day celebration, the Deputy Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Otu, Mr. Edem Darlington, in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, on Thursday, led a delegation of media practitioners to visit ailing veteran journalist, Mr. Peter Okon, celebrating his resilience and steady recovery.
Mr. Okon, a retired broadcaster who served meritoriously with the Cross River State Broadcasting Corporation (CRBC), has been recuperating after he was knocked down by a reckless driver nearly two years ago. His condition, which once raised serious concern among colleagues, has significantly improved, drawing commendation and gratitude during the visit.
Speaking during the visit, Mr. Darlington expressed delight at the veteran journalist’s recovery, recalling that their last meeting took place in the hospital under far more critical circumstances.
“It is good to see you strong and smiling again. The last time we met was in the hospital, and the situation then was very different. Today calls for gratitude to God. The preservation of your life shows that there are still greater things ahead,” he said.
He noted that the visit, coming ahead of World Press Freedom Day, was not only to celebrate Mr. Okon’s progress but also to reaffirm the enduring bond within the journalism profession.
According to him, retired journalists should not be forgotten, stressing that beyond the challenges of ageing, loneliness and neglect often pose greater threats.
“We are here to celebrate with you, to sit with you, and to remind you that you are not forgotten. You still have so much to offer,” he added.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, described Mr. Okon as “a soldier who is winning the battle,” commending his courage and determination to recover.
She expressed optimism that, given his steady progress, he would soon regain full mobility, while conveying the Council’s solidarity and assuring him of continued prayers and support from journalists across the state.
In his remarks, Mr. Clement James of the Correspondents Chapel encouraged the veteran journalist not to lose hope, emphasizing that setbacks are not the end of life’s journey.
“A man can fall and rise again. Never lose hope. Keep striving and trust God for better days ahead,” he said.
Responding, Mr. Okon expressed deep appreciation for the visit and the support he has received from both the government and his colleagues, noting that it has given him a renewed sense of belonging.
“When the support came, I felt a strong sense of belonging. The calls, messages, and visits have kept me going,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of professional unity, noting that such gestures reassure journalists that they are remembered and valued.
“One thing journalists appreciate is when colleagues come together. It tells you that you are not forgotten,” he added.
The high point of the visit was the presentation of financial support to the veteran journalist, accompanied by prayers for his continued recovery.
