The Benue state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Timothy Yangien Ornguga, has called on journalists to play a crucial role in promoting justice and good governance by countering fake news and misinformation. He made this appeal when the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue state Council, paid him a courtesy visit in Makurdi on October 2, 2026. Ornguga emphasized the importance of verifying information before publication.
Ornguga stressed that journalists should not allow themselves to be used by politicians or other individuals to disseminate false reports. He urged media practitioners to regularly engage with ministries, departments, and agencies to obtain accurate information and properly educate the public on laws and government’s policies. This, he believes, will help in promoting order in society.
The commissioner highlighted the important watchdog role of the media in reporting issues such as electoral violence, thuggery, traffic violations, and indiscriminate dumping of refuse. He noted that the Ministry of Justice had strengthened its operations through its website, capacity-building for lawyers, provision of office equipment, and collaboration with relevant agencies on critical issues.
These critical issues include sexual and gender-based violence and human trafficking. Ornguga also addressed the challenge of garnishee orders, explaining that valid court judgements could not simply be ignored. However, he mentioned that the Ministry was negotiating paying in instalments with judgement creditors to prevent sudden financial pressure on the government.
During the visit, Ornguga expressed his willingness to strengthen collaboration with the Correspondents’ Chapel. In response, the Chapel leadership reaffirmed their commitment to professional journalism and responsible coverage of government’s activities. This meeting highlights the importance of synergy between the government and the media in promoting good governance.
The Benue state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice emphasized that the media has a critical role to play in the dissemination of accurate information. He encouraged journalists to be vigilant and proactive in their reporting, ensuring that the public receives reliable and trustworthy information.
The call to action by Ornguga is seen as a significant step towards fostering a more informed public discourse in Benue state. By working together, the government and the media can help in creating a society where accurate information is valued, and fake news is countered effectively.
Key points
- The Benue state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Timothy Yangien Ornguga, urges journalists to counter fake news and misinformation.
- Journalists are encouraged to verify information before publication and engage with government agencies for accurate information.
- The Ministry of Justice is strengthening its operations and collaborating with relevant agencies on critical issues.
