Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged journalists to combat fake news and misinformation by prioritizing fact-checking and ensuring accuracy in their reports.
Gov. Oborevwori gave the charge on Monday during the Press Week organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council in Asaba.
The event was themed: “Imperative of proper leadership recruitment process for good governance.”
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, Gov. Oborevwori emphasised the importance of journalists striving for accuracy, noting that many people tend to consume negative reports without seeking the correct version.
He commended the media professionals for their cordial relationship with his administration and praised the NUJ for organizing the Press Week, which he described as an opportunity for journalists to enhance their knowledge for better performance.
“It is my joy to be in the midst of the cream of journalism practitioners in Delta State at this year’s Press Week. How nice it is to devote time to meet and cross-fertilize ideas both among yourselves and critical members of society.
“This way, you arm yourselves with greater knowledge to impact on your performances for the good of your profession and the society in general.
“I, therefore, commend the Nigerian Union of Journalists here in the state, for organizing the Press Week and more importantly, for bringing in notable persons to point the way forward.
“As an administration, we will like to commend journalists in the state for the cordial relationship between us. We have related in a very peaceful way and it is my sincere hope that going forward, the relationship will be marked by greater understanding and mutual respect.
“It is in the interest of journalists to toe the lines of preserving the country as the stability of both the state and nation will always be at the centre of your practice,” the governor said.
Gov. Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and openness, urging journalists to verify information through proper channels.
“As a government, we are operating an open-door policy. There are several layers of officials ready and willing to throw light on grey areas in fulfilling the more agenda that we have set for ourselves.
“Please, continue with the efforts to find out the truth before going to press. This is particularly essential as more people will be inclined to listen to or read negative reports and may not bother to listen to or read the correct version of the story.
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“Let the prevailing era of mutual respect continue to mark the relationship between journalists and the government.
“My administration is committed to engaging in policies and programmes that will enhance the economic and socio-cultural lives of our people. Let me not bore you with the list of projects we are so far executing or executed,” he added.
The governor also called for an understanding and cooperation with both state and federal governments.
In his goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Press Week, Christopher Biose, the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, and the member representing Oshimili South, Bridget Anyafulu, highlighted the crucial role journalists play in fostering sustainable and peaceful development.
Earlier, the state NUJ Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, said the theme of the 2024 Press Week reflects the importance of credible electoral processes.
He stressed that genuine representation in political leadership ensures integrity and dedication, adding that journalists have the responsibility to inform, educate, and hold those in power accountable.
