Media practitioners in Delta State have been urged to exercise restraint and uphold ethical standards amid the growing wave of defamatory narratives within the political space as electioneering activities intensify.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, represented by the Director of New Media, Mr. Timothy Agbaragu, issued the caution during the fourth anniversary of Hill Nigeria Media and a capacity-building training for media professionals held in Asaba.
Aniagwu decried what he described as a disturbing rise in misinformation, baseless allegations, and personal attacks among political actors, warning that such trends undermine democratic values, threaten public peace, and erode confidence in the electoral process.
He noted that the concern comes against the backdrop of heightened political tension ahead of forthcoming elections.
He further warned that unchecked dissemination of defamatory content could mislead voters and potentially incite unrest.
Consequently, he called on politicians, their supporters, and media practitioners to prioritize fact-checking and responsible reporting, emphasizing the need for issue-based campaigns rather than personality-driven attacks.
While commending the organisers for the initiative, the Commissioner urged journalists to remain professional by delivering accurate, balanced, and credible information to the public.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Ambassador Mayor Chinedu Enujeko, praised the organiser for her vision and commitment to fostering constructive dialogue and societal development.
He highlighted the importance of such initiatives in empowering individuals, particularly youths, and strengthening unity.
Delivering a goodwill message, Enujeko congratulated the organiser on the successful execution of the programme, expressing optimism for continued growth and impact.
He also acknowledged her positive influence on his political journey.
Similarly, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor, Professor Patrick Ijeh, alongside Dr. Blessing Umunnah, a senior lecturer and Sub-Dean in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies at the Federal University Otuoke, charged journalists to remain steadfast in upholding truth and professional ethics despite external pressures.
They underscored the importance of fact-checking, conflict-sensitive reporting, and countering misinformation.
The training, which attracted media stakeholders from across the country, was designed to enhance professionalism and promote responsible journalism ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In her address, the organiser, Mrs. Christy Aboghe, stressed the pivotal role of the media in shaping public discourse and safeguarding democratic integrity.
She emphasized the increasing need for accuracy, fairness, and ethical reporting as the election period approaches.
Participants at the event described the programme as timely and impactful, noting that it provided them with contemporary tools and strategies to navigate the evolving media landscape.
They also commended the organiser for delivering a well-structured and engaging session, expressing hope for future editions.
The anniversary celebration featured goodwill messages and renewed calls for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to ensure a credible, peaceful, and transparent electoral process in 2027.
