Bonuola, Falana, others shine at Wole Soyinka media award

Former Editor and Managing Director of The Guardian, Lade Bonuola and human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, were among those honoured at the 15th Wole Soyinka Award for Investigative Reporting in Lagos, yesterday.

Bonuola received the Lifetime Award for Journalistic Excellence, while Falana bagged Human Rights Defender Award.

In her speech, Executive Director/ CEO of Wole Soyinka Award for Investigative Reporting, Motunrayo Alaka, said: “In this post-truth era, investigative journalism has become even more difficult. The truth is constantly besieged from all sides. Journalists and news media organisations are attacked daily by public office holders, organised peddlers of misinformation and citizens alike.

“Our predicament has been further complicated by the (COVID-19) pandemic, the #EndSARS protests and the vandalism that followed both incidents, with losses to many, including the death of a budding journalist, Pelumi Onifade of Gboah TV, who died while in the custody of officers attached to the Lagos State Task Force.”

She added: “Journalism has been masked by these issues. Yet, we are not silenced. Despite the many woes of the media, this has been a great year for reporters and news media organisations alike.”

Expressing his appreciation, Bonuola said he was happy with the quality of the award and reporters. He commended Prof. Wole Soyinka for the gesture.

Damilola Banjo of Sahara Reporters was announced the Nigerian Investigative Journalist of the Year.

The Investigative Media Award went to Punch, Premium Times and The Sun.