A UNIVERSITY Lecturer, Dr. Gideon Isika, has tasked journalists on ethical reporting and to rise above political and ownership pressures propaganda and the need for immediate survival, so as to uphold truth and foster national cohesion, saying they must use the media positively in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Isika said the media have a responsibility to guide society toward constructive outcomes, as the public has a right to truthful and accurate information, noting that despites having what it takes to shape society positively: “Many have failed to mount sustained pressure on government to ensure transparency and accountability.”
Speaking on the theme, ‘Journalism as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building,’ at an event to mark this year’s World Press Freedom Day, organised by the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), in Asaba, Isika, a lecturer at the Dennis Osadebay University, Anwai, described the theme as apt, saying Nigeria’s democracy is increasingly under pressure due to persistent insecurity, conflicts and governance challenges.
He, howver, stated: “Conflict is not entirely negative if properly managed, as it can lead to lasting solutions. But when poorly handled, it results in chaos, distrust and underdevelopment.”
Isika, who was the Guest Lecturer, lamented the rising trend of misinformation, sensationalism and lack of verification in digital reporting, noting: “Credibility is the cornerstone of journalism. Without trustworthiness and expertise, the profession becomes nothing more than distorted narratives.”
The lecturer criticised what he described as “begging-bowl journalism,” and tendency of some practitioners to glorify political office holders, rather than holding them accountable, adding: “Journalists must resist pseudo-reality, reject manipulation and refuse to sacrifice truth for personal gain or political convenience.”
He urged journalists to adhere strictly to global ethical standards, including accuracy, fairness, balance and respect for diversity, while avoiding discriminatory and inflammatory reports capable of escalating tensions, as well as promote dialogue and national unity through talk shows, press engagements and community fora aimed at reducing societal tensions.
He stated: “With journalists acting in good conscience and upholding professional ethics, national rebirth is possible.
“I want media practitioners to see themselves as critical stakeholders in nation-building, because the survival and progress of Nigeria depend largely on the integrity and courage of its press.”
On his part, the Special Guest of Honour and Executive Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on New Media, Comrade Felix Ofou, commended DOPF for maintaining independence, even as he urged greater credibility and regulation in the profession.
Ofou, a veteran with over 30 years experiance in journalism, said: “You cannot be a successful journalist without independence. Financial independence is at the heart of the profession, and that is why the idea of DOPF resonates with me.”
There were goodwill messages by the Director General, Delta State Orientation Bureau, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe; Mrs. Tracy, State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mrs. Tracy Ikolomi; Chairman of the state council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Churchill Oyowe; and NAWOJ Chairperson, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo.
They commended DOPF for sustaining credibility, independence and colloboration with relevant agencies and organisations through adherence to professional ethics by members.
Earlier, Chairman of DOPF, Mr. Emmanuel Enebeli, said the Forum is made up of qualified journalists committed to upholding ethical standards in online journalism, who own media platforms and are duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
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