The veteran journalist, Comrade Peter Okon, exercising during the visit.
By Ita Williams, Calabar
The Deputy Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Otu, Mr. Edem Darlington, in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has led a delegation to visit ailing veteran journalist, Mr. Peter Okon, ahead of World Press Freedom Day.
The visit, which took place on Thursday, brought together media practitioners who gathered to celebrate Okon’s resilience and improving health.
Okon, a retired broadcaster with the Cross River State Broadcasting Corporation (CRBC), has been recovering after he was knocked down by a reckless driver nearly two years ago.
His health, which had previously caused serious concern among colleagues, has shown significant improvement, prompting gratitude and commendation during the visit.
Speaking, Darlington expressed joy at the veteran journalist’s recovery, recalling their last meeting under critical conditions in the hospital.
“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,” he said.
He explained that the visit was not only to celebrate Okon’s progress but also to reinforce unity within the journalism profession.
Darlington stressed that retired journalists should not be neglected, noting that ageing and loneliness often pose serious challenges.
Also speaking, NUJ Chairman in the state, Comrade Archibong Bassey, described Okon as “a soldier who is winning the battle,” expressing optimism about his full recovery.
The visit featured prayers and financial support for the veteran journalist, who expressed appreciation for the continued solidarity shown by colleagues and government representatives.