Delta State Orientation Bureau Chief Urges Media to Uphold Ethics in Reporting …. Commends Delta Journalists, Advocates for Fact-Based Criticism and Stronger Government-Media Collaboration
ASABA/Nigeria: The Director General of the Delta State Bureau of Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has emphasized that while the government welcomes criticism, particularly from the media, such critiques must be constructive and rooted in verifiable facts.
Speaking during a media hangout with members of the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Asaba, Dr. Latimore highlighted the importance of ethical journalism, cautioning against the spread of fake news and misinformation, which he described as harmful to both the misquoted source and the credibility of the offending medium.
Dr. Latimore, a member of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), urged journalists to seek clarifications directly from the Commissioner for Information or the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor. He added that other information managers, including himself and the Manager of Communications, are also available for inquiries when necessary.
Pledging continued collaboration with media practitioners, Dr. Latimore stressed that the State Orientation and Communications Bureau remains committed to partnering with the State NUJ whenever needed. He praised Delta journalists for their professionalism, unity, and moral integrity, noting that their efforts have placed the Delta NUJ among the best in the country.
“Our colleagues in the media are encouraged to verify stories before publication,” Dr. Latimore stated. “We have various officials handling information in the state, led by the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza. It is crucial that journalists cross-check facts with us to ensure accurate reporting. Misinformation not only damages the subject but also tarnishes the image of the media outlet.”
He further urged the media to maintain a cordial relationship with the state government, emphasizing that the media and government are partners in progress.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Delta State NUJ Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, lauded Dr. Latimore’s effectiveness as an information manager, noting his previous roles as Executive Assistant on Communications in the administration of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa and as Executive Assistant on Orientation and Communications to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori before his promotion to Director General of the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau.
Comrade Oyowe assured Dr. Latimore of the journalists’ readiness to support the Bureau’s programs and urged him to involve members of the union in the Bureau’s activities.
