Days after being honoured as Television Reporter of the Year for the second consecutive time, Channels Television journalist Charles Opurum has received another major recognition with the Champion of Justice Award from the Haven360 Foundation for his impactful journalism and advocacy for the downtrodden.
The award, presented in recognition of his professionalism, in-depth analysis and commitment to amplifying human rights and justice-related stories, celebrates Opurum’s role in spotlighting cases of injustice and giving a voice to marginalised Nigerians.
Reacting to the honour, Opurum said the recognition affirms that the work being done in Rivers State is gaining national attention.
“It makes me feel like the work we are doing here in Rivers is being noticed,” he said.
He explained that Haven360 Foundation’s mission of supporting the oppressed aligns closely with his journalism, noting that he consistently amplifies the foundation’s interventions, including cases of long-term unlawful detention and human rights abuses.
Opurum referenced several cases he reported on, including that of Kenani, who spent about 14 years in detention before intervention, the widely reported Black Box nightclub assault involving young women, and the alleged abuse of a corps member in Anambra State.
According to him, the award recognises his selfless reporting in support of justice-focused initiatives.
“Foundations like this are fundamentally helping people who lack the financial means or connections to escape injustice in what many describe as a lawless society,” he added.
Looking ahead, the award-winning journalist promised even more impactful storytelling, pledging to double efforts in telling human, social and investigative stories from places often ignored.
He also expressed gratitude to the organisers and stakeholders of the award. He commended Channels Television Chairman, Dr John Momoh, for providing what he described as one of the best platforms for journalists to thrive professionally.
Speaking at the event, President of Haven360 Foundation, Barrister Cyrus Onu, said the award ceremony was both a celebration of accomplishments and a launchpad for greater impact.
“Our foundation is bent on ensuring a just and fairer world for all. We did remarkably well in 2025, and we intend to do much more in 2026,” he said.
Onu revealed that the foundation plans to reach at least 500 unjustly detained persons, provide them with legal aid, rehabilitation and other forms of support, while also expanding into broader justice and impact projects.
He stressed that addressing unjust detention is a collective responsibility involving law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, correctional services and the wider society.
Several dignitaries, including the Chief Judge of the state, the NBA President, legal practitioners and media professionals, were also recognised at the event.
Haven360 Foundation, a non-profit organisation, is dedicated to empowering marginalised communities and advocating for justice reform through legal aid, human rights advocacy and community-based initiatives aimed at building a more just and fair society.
