Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on journalists across the country to uphold accuracy, fairness and professional ethics in their coverage of political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Oborevwori made the call in Abuja while delivering the keynote address at the fourth Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Annual Milestone Recognition of Media Icons.
The event, themed “Strengthening Democracy through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance”, recognised journalists whose contributions have helped strengthen democratic institutions and promote accountability.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Johnson Erijo, the governor said the ceremony was taking place at a critical period as political activities gradually intensified ahead of the 2027 elections.
He noted that the theme highlighted the important relationship between press freedom, responsible journalism and good governance, stressing that democracy could not thrive without access to credible information and an accountable government.
“Democracy protects the freedom of the press, while responsible journalism strengthens democratic institutions and keeps government connected to the people,” he said.
The governor recalled the significant role played by the Nigerian media in the country’s struggle for independence, resistance against military rule and restoration of democratic governance in 1999.
He said several journalists suffered harassment, intimidation and detention, while some lost their lives in the course of defending democratic freedoms.
Oborevwori also referenced Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution, which assigns the media the responsibility of monitoring governance and holding public officials accountable.
However, he stressed that press freedom must go hand in hand with professional responsibility, insisting that criticism of government and public institutions should be based on verified information.
He expressed concern over the growing spread of misinformation, hate speech and false reports, particularly through social media platforms, warning journalists against allowing the pressure to break news first to undermine accuracy.
“Public trust is the foundation of journalism. Once lost, it is difficult to regain,” he said.
On the relationship between government and the media, Oborevwori maintained that both sides had responsibilities in strengthening democracy.
He urged government officials to respect press freedom, encourage transparency and avoid interpreting every critical report as an act of hostility.
According to him, constructive criticism can help governments identify shortcomings, correct mistakes and improve service delivery.
“Fair criticism can expose gaps, correct mistakes and help improve service delivery,” he said.
Highlighting his administration’s relationship with the media in Delta State, the governor described journalists as important partners in the state’s development process.
He reaffirmed his commitment to press freedom and open communication, noting that the principles were consistent with his administration’s M.O.R.E agenda, which focuses on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
Oborevwori said the administration’s development priorities extended beyond road and bridge construction to include rural connectivity, quality education, accessible healthcare and economic opportunities for residents across the state.
He congratulated the award recipients, describing them as professionals who had demonstrated that journalism could be courageous without being reckless and critical without being unfair.
Earlier, former NUJ President and Chairman of the occasion, Chris Isiguzo, said responsible journalism would be particularly important as Nigeria approached another general election.
He urged media practitioners to provide citizens with credible information without inflaming tensions or allowing political interests to influence their professional responsibilities.
Isiguzo also cautioned journalists against attempts by political actors to weaponise information for electoral advantage.
The NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya, said Oborevwori was selected as Special Guest of Honour because, according to him, there had been no recorded cases of intimidation, harassment or arrest of journalists under the governor’s administration.
Yahya also commended the governor’s developmental initiatives and support for vulnerable women and children.
He used the occasion to appeal to the Federal Government to approve an improved salary structure for journalists, particularly those employed by state-owned media organisations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Oborevwori received the Media Friendly Governor of the Year award at the ceremony.
Speaking on behalf of the other awardees, Tabitha Sani-Kangiwa and other media icons encouraged younger journalists to embrace the profession, build professional relationships and prioritise dedication and service over quick financial gains.
They stressed that journalism remained a public trust that required integrity, commitment and responsibility.
