ABUJA: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged journalists across Nigeria to uphold accuracy, fairness, professionalism and ethical standards in their reporting, warning against the spread of misinformation, hate speech and unverified information as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom, transparency and constructive engagement with the media, describing journalists as important partners in democratic development and effective governance.
Oborevwori gave the charge in Abuja while delivering the keynote address at the fourth Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Annual Milestone Recognition of Media Icons, where he was named Media Friendly Governor of the Year.
The event, which attracted media professionals and other distinguished personalities, was held under the theme, “Strengthening Democracy through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance.”
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Johnson Erijo, the governor said the theme was particularly relevant given the increasing political activities and public debates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He explained that a functional democracy depended on the availability of credible information, a responsible media and a government willing to remain accountable to the people.
According to him, press freedom and responsible journalism are complementary pillars of democratic governance, noting that while democracy guarantees the media the freedom to operate, professional journalism helps strengthen democratic institutions and keep public officials accountable.
“Democracy protects the freedom of the press, while responsible journalism strengthens democratic institutions and keeps government connected to the people,” he said.
Oborevwori Recalls Media’s Role in Nigeria’s Democratic Struggle
The Delta governor acknowledged the historic contributions of Nigerian journalists to the country’s political development, particularly during the struggle for independence, the resistance against military dictatorship and the eventual restoration of democratic governance in 1999.
He recalled that many journalists endured harassment, intimidation, detention and other forms of persecution, while some paid the ultimate price in their determination to defend press freedom and democratic values.
Oborevwori also drew attention to Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which mandates the media to monitor governance and hold public institutions accountable to the people.
However, he stressed that the constitutional responsibility of the media must be exercised with professionalism, accuracy and a strong sense of responsibility.
He warned that journalists must not allow the competition to break news first to override the obligation to verify information before publication.
Governor Raises Concern Over Misinformation, Hate Speech
Expressing concern over the increasing circulation of misinformation, false reports and hate speech, particularly across social media platforms, Oborevwori urged media practitioners to be more vigilant in their handling of politically sensitive issues.
He noted that unverified reports and inflammatory publications could deepen divisions, undermine public confidence and create unnecessary tension, especially during election periods.
The governor maintained that journalists must distinguish between responsible investigative reporting and the deliberate circulation of misleading information.
He emphasised that public trust remained the most valuable asset of the journalism profession and warned that once credibility was lost, rebuilding it could become extremely difficult.
“Public trust is the foundation of journalism. Once lost, it is difficult to regain,” he stated.
Oborevwori Urges Government to Embrace Constructive Criticism
Addressing the relationship between government and the media, the governor said both institutions had important responsibilities in protecting democracy and promoting good governance.
He urged public officials to respect the independence of the press, encourage transparency and avoid interpreting every critical report as an attempt to undermine government.
According to him, constructive criticism should be welcomed because it provides opportunities for governments to identify shortcomings, correct mistakes and improve the quality of public service delivery.
“Fair criticism can expose gaps, correct mistakes and help improve service delivery,” he said.
He added that a responsible government should recognise the media as a partner in development rather than an adversary.
Governor Reaffirms Commitment to Press Freedom in Delta
Highlighting his administration’s relationship with journalists in Delta State, Oborevwori described the media as an indispensable partner in communicating government policies, reporting development initiatives and ensuring that the voices of residents are heard.
He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining an atmosphere where journalists can perform their professional duties without unnecessary interference or intimidation.
The governor said this commitment was consistent with his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda, which focuses on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
He explained that the administration’s development priorities extended beyond road and bridge construction to include rural connectivity, quality education, accessible healthcare and economic opportunities for residents across the state.
According to him, responsible journalism can help communicate these development efforts while also providing the necessary scrutiny to ensure that government remains accountable.
NUJ Recognition: Oborevwori Congratulates Award Recipients
The governor congratulated the journalists and other professionals recognised at the ceremony, describing them as individuals whose contributions have helped strengthen democratic institutions and promote accountability.
He commended their dedication to professional journalism, noting that the media profession required courage, integrity, discipline and a commitment to the public interest.
Oborevwori observed that journalists could be courageous without being reckless and critical without being unfair, urging practitioners to uphold these values in their daily professional responsibilities.
Earlier, former NUJ National President and Chairman of the occasion, Chris Isiguzo, underscored the importance of responsible journalism as Nigeria approaches another general election.
He noted that the media would play a significant role in shaping public understanding, promoting issue-based political discussions and strengthening democratic participation.
The event provided an opportunity to celebrate distinguished media professionals while reinforcing the need for ethical journalism, credible reporting and accountability in Nigeria’s democratic process.
As political activities intensify ahead of 2027, the governor’s message adds to growing calls for journalists, political actors and public institutions to promote responsible communication, respect democratic freedoms and avoid actions capable of undermining national unity.
