Delta State Governor’s Press Secretary Charges Journalists to Uphold Ethical Reporting
LAGOS/Nigeria: Sir Festus Ahon, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, urged journalists in the state to become advocates for the policies and initiatives of the current administration.
The call to action was made during a courtesy visit by the newly elected executives of the Asaba Correspondents Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by its chairman, Comrade Ifeanyi Olannye.
Ahon, acknowledging the peaceful conduct of the Chapel’s election, extended congratulations to the new leadership and underscored the pivotal role journalists play in societal progress. He emphasized the imperative nature of upholding professional ethics at all times.
Addressing the journalists, Ahon, drawing from his extensive experience in the field, stressed the necessity of fact-checking and verification before disseminating information to the public. “You know I am one of you and have been in this profession for decades. Therefore, I charge you to always verify your information and get your facts right before going to the press,” he asserted.
He added, “Do not be hasty to publish anything. I am not saying you should not publish, but ensure that whatever you are publishing is not just the truth but information that helps in the growth and development of the State.”
Ahon further highlighted the responsibility journalists hold towards the public, stating, “It will not be right for you to dish out false information to the public. You owe it to them and not just to us as a government to feed the people with the right information.”
Assuring the union of the State Government’s commitment to the welfare of journalists, Ahon pledged the government’s willingness to address concerns raised by the union within its capabilities.
“I urge you to provide the needed leadership for the chapel,” Ahon urged the newly elected executives, emphasizing unity and transparency in their leadership.
In response, the newly elected chairman, Comrade Ifeanyi Olannye, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the Chief Press Secretary. Olannye pledged the Chapel’s collaboration with the State Government, focusing on public enlightenment and accurate reporting to drive the M.O.R.E Agenda of the present administration.
Olannye commended Governor Sheriff Oborewori for selecting one of their own as his spokesperson, vowing to run an inclusive administration in the chapel and work closely with the CPS to promote government programs and policies.
