The Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has strongly criticized the state government under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what it described as selective, inconsistent, and insufficient engagement with the media in the past two years.
In a press statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, and Secretary, Comrade Victor Sorokwu, the Council noted that despite notable achievements under the “MORE” Agenda, the administration has failed to institutionalize transparent and inclusive communication with journalists across the state.
While acknowledging the administration’s achievements, including implementation of the new minimum wage, regular payment of salaries and pensions, empowerment programmes, and infrastructure development the NUJ emphasized that these gains are undermined by poor media relations.
“The current administration has allowed a proud tradition of regular press briefings and media parleys to lapse, thereby widening the gap between the government and the organised media,” the statement read. “If left unaddressed, this could have adverse consequences for public trust and how the administration is ultimately assessed in the annals of history.”
The Council appreciated the reported 100% increment in stipends for some journalists but described it as insufficient to meet broader expectations. It stressed that beyond gestures, the media requires institutional access to the government to effectively discharge its constitutional mandate as enshrined in Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution.
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The NUJ also drew attention to previous administrations under Governors James Ibori and Emmanuel Uduaghan, which they praised for maintaining consistent engagement with the press through quarterly briefings and inclusive media interactions. It said while former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa made some effort in this regard, it was lacking in consistency.
“It is not too late,” the Council urged, calling on Governor Oborevwori to recalibrate his media strategy and adopt a more open and inclusive approach through live broadcasts, media briefings, and structured interactions with journalists from all sectors.
The Union reiterated that its intervention is neither antagonistic nor self-serving but motivated by a professional and patriotic duty to strengthen democracy in Delta State.
“As a Council, our mission is not to confront, but to constructively chart a course that advances both governance and journalism in Delta State,” it concluded, affirming readiness to partner with the government in fostering accountability and mutual respect.
