Members of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) have been called upon to deploy the power of journalism in promoting peace, preventing conflicts, and strengthening national unity as part of activities marking the 2026 World Press Freedom Day celebration.
The call was made during a lecture themed, “Journalism as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building,” held at the DOPF Secretariat in Asaba, Delta State.
Delivering the keynote lecture, media scholar and communication expert, Dr. Gideon Isika, charged journalists to utilise their platforms responsibly in advancing positive societal values and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.
He described the theme of the event as timely, noting that Nigeria’s democratic system continues to face increasing pressure arising from insecurity, political tensions, conflicts, and governance challenges.
According to Dr. Isika, journalists must remain committed to truth, professionalism, and national cohesion despite political interference, propaganda, and ethical compromises within the media space.
“Conflict is not entirely negative if properly managed because it can produce lasting solutions. However, when poorly handled, it breeds chaos, distrust, and underdevelopment.
“The media has a critical responsibility to guide society toward constructive outcomes,” he stated.
He stressed that the public deserves truthful and factual information, urging journalists to uphold integrity and use their profession as a force for accountability and societal progress.
Dr. Isika also expressed concern over the rising trend of misinformation, sensationalism, and poor verification in online journalism, warning that credibility remains the foundation of the media profession.
“Credibility is the cornerstone of journalism. Without trustworthiness and professional expertise, journalism becomes nothing more than distorted narratives,” he said.
He criticised what he described as “begging-bowl journalism” and the excessive glorification of political office holders by some media practitioners, urging journalists to function as watchdogs rather than tools in the hands of those in authority.
“Journalists must resist manipulation, reject pseudo-reality, and avoid sacrificing truth for personal gain or political convenience,” he added.
The communication expert further encouraged media practitioners to adhere strictly to global ethical standards, including accuracy, fairness, balance, and respect for diversity, while avoiding reports capable of inciting tension or deepening societal divisions.
He also urged journalists to use their various platforms to promote dialogue, shared national values, and constructive engagement through talk shows, community forums, and public discussions aimed at fostering peace and reducing conflicts.
“With journalists acting conscientiously and upholding professional ethics, national rebirth is achievable. Media practitioners must see themselves as critical stakeholders in nation-building because the survival and progress of Nigeria depend greatly on the integrity and courage of the press,” Dr. Isika noted.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Assistant on New Media to the Delta State Governor, Comrade Felix Ofou, commended DOPF for maintaining independence as a professional body, while advocating stronger credibility standards and effective regulation within the media industry.
“You cannot become a successful journalist without independence. Financial independence remains central to the profession, and that is why the vision behind DOPF resonates strongly with me,” Ofou said.
Other speakers at the event included the Director-General of the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Fred Oghenesivbe; representatives of the National Orientation Agency; NAWOJ Chairperson, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo, among others.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Chairman of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, Comrade Emmanuel Enebeli, stated that the association was established to uphold professionalism and ethical standards in online journalism.
He explained that membership of the forum is strictly based on professional qualifications, journalistic integrity, and ownership of duly registered media organisations with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
