Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on journalists to uphold accuracy, fairness, and professional ethics in their coverage of political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections. He 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 theme of the event was “Strengthening Democracy through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance.” Oborevwori was represented by his Chief of Staff, Johnson Erijo.
The governor noted that democracy depended on credible information, press freedom, and accountable leadership. He stressed that the media had a constitutional responsibility to monitor governance and hold public officials accountable. Oborevwori recalled the contributions of Nigerian journalists to the country’s independence struggle, resistance against military rule, and restoration of democratic governance in 1999. He noted that some journalists paid dearly through harassment, detention, and loss of lives.
Oborevwori cited Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution, which stipulates the media's watchdog responsibilities, and urged journalists to exercise this role with professionalism. He insisted that reports and criticism of government must be based on verified information. The governor expressed concern over the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and fabricated reports, particularly on social media. He warned that the pressure to break news ahead of competitors should not compromise accuracy and public trust.
The governor also urged government officials to respect press freedom, promote transparency, and recognise constructive criticism as a tool for identifying shortcomings and improving service delivery. Oborevwori described journalists in Delta State as partners in development and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom and open communication under its M.O.R.E agenda. The administration’s priorities include rural connectivity, quality education, accessible healthcare, and economic opportunities, in addition to road and bridge infrastructure.
Earlier, former NUJ President and Chairman of the occasion, Chris Isiguzo, urged journalists to provide credible information ahead of the 2027 elections and resist attempts by political actors to manipulate the media for electoral advantage. Isiguzo emphasised the importance of responsible journalism in sustaining democratic governance. He also noted that the media must be vigilant in its watchdog role.
The NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya, said Oborevwori was selected as Special Guest of Honour because there had been no recorded cases of intimidation, harassment, or arrest of journalists under his administration. Yahya commended the Delta State Government’s developmental initiatives and appealed to the Federal Government to approve an improved salary structure for journalists, particularly those working in state-owned media organisations.
Oborevwori received the Media Friendly Governor of the Year award at the ceremony. On behalf of the award recipients, Tabitha Sani-Kangiwa urged younger journalists to embrace integrity, dedication, and service in the profession. The event recognised media icons and celebrated the contributions of journalists to Nigeria's democratic development.
Key points
- The governor emphasised the importance of credible information and press freedom in sustaining democratic governance.
- Oborevwori urged journalists to exercise their watchdog responsibilities with professionalism and base reports on verified information.
- The NUJ National President commended the Delta State Government’s developmental initiatives and appealed for an improved salary structure for journalists.
