Stakeholders Call for Unbiased Media Coverage and Value Rebirth to Tackle Nigeria’s Security Challenges

By Emmanuel Enebeli

ASABA/Nigeria: In an eye-opening discussion, security stakeholders at the 5th Annual Lecture Series of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) have underscored the importance of unbiased media coverage and the urgent need for a rebirth of values in tackling Nigeria’s escalating insecurity.

The event, held on November 20, 2024, in Asaba, Delta State, brought together key figures from various sectors to explore local, implementable solutions to the nation’s security crisis.

The lecture, titled “Security Challenges: Finding a Local Implementable Solution,” featured prominent speakers, including the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, representatives from security agencies, and notable media professionals. The focus of the forum was to confront the rising security concerns in the country while offering practical and locally driven responses.

Governor Oborevwori, represented by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, the State Commissioner for Information, echoed these sentiments, urging the media to practice responsible journalism. He highlighted the state government’s ongoing efforts to combat insecurity, such as rebranding the “Delta Hulk” operation to “Operation Delta Sweep” and providing 31 operational vehicles to support the police and other security agencies.

“Security is central to our administration,” Governor Oborevwori remarked. “We have taken bold steps to combat crime, and we rely on the media to ensure that their reports are factual and balanced, promoting national unity.”

Governor Oborevwori reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring peace and security in Delta State. He commended the collaboration between security agencies and other stakeholders, calling for continued support from the media in delivering accurate news that promotes unity and progress.

The Chairman of the Day, Elder Emma Ogidi, the Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR Delta Chapter, the Chairperson of NAWOJ, (Extreme Left) and the Chairman of DOPF Emmanuel Enebeli, (Extreme Right)

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Police Public Relations Officer (FPRO), who was the Guest Speaker, called on journalists to steer clear of involvement in cybercrimes, such as fraud, fake news, and misinformation.

He noted that young Nigerians, often highly skilled in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), are frequently misusing their expertise for criminal activities, making it increasingly difficult for security forces to maintain order.

The Special Guests of Guest, Representative to Governor, Delta State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, and other Guests in a group Photo session

“The Nigerian government is actively fighting these issues, with President Tinubu having ordered a clampdown on cybercriminals,” Adejobi said, stressing the importance of collective efforts to combat cybercrime. He also warned against “paid journalism,” condemning journalists who accept money for stories, which he argued undermines public trust and the ethical standards of the profession.

Further, ACP Adejobi advocated for a community-driven approach to policing, stressing the need for traditional leaders and local institutions to play an active role in formal security efforts. “Until we adopt collective policing, we can’t get it right. Involving traditional rulers in security initiatives can significantly contribute to peace,” he said.

He also cautioned journalists to be wary of unverified reports, particularly on social media, where the spread of misinformation is rampant.

The event also featured remarks from Mr. Emma Ogidi, the Chairman of the occasion, who called for greater engagement with local vigilante groups to address security challenges. He stressed the importance of accurate and balanced reporting, particularly in political matters.

In his opening remarks, Emmanuel Enebeli, Chairman, DOPF, stated that the theme was chosen because of the shared and collective concern of the people on the security challenges in the country.

“Today’s lecture strongly underlines our professional obligation and social responsibility as Delta Online Publishers Forum.

“It is not only to report on these challenges but to also actively seek solutions that contribute to the safety and security of our society.

“The need for a security solution is urgent, as the threat touches every corner of our nation from our cities to the smallest community,” Enebeli said.

The discussions at the DOPF Annual Lecture Series highlighted the urgent need for a unified front in combating insecurity in Nigeria. Through responsible journalism, community engagement, and cooperation with security forces, the country can hope to achieve a safer and more secure future.

At the panel discussion, experts such as Professor Odikasieme Emmanus Nonye, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN) in Delta State; Bridget Dominion Foh Affiah, Executive Director of the Ideal Women Advancement Initiative; Amb (Pst.) Edewor Egedegbe, Founding Executive Director of VREL; and Mr. Odita Sunday-Udememaguna, Head of Defence/Security Affairs at The Guardian Newspaper, with Professor Kemi Emina, as the Moderator,  emphasised the importance of value rebirth. They agreed that the process should begin at the family level and extend across the entire nation.