Delta governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged journalists to uphold accuracy, fairness and public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Oborevwori spoke on Saturday in Abuja while delivering the keynote address at the fourth Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Annual Milestone Recognition of Media Icons.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, with the theme ‘Strengthening Democracy through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance’, honoured journalists whose contributions have strengthened democracy.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Johnson Erijo, the governor said the event came amid heightened political activities, with several governors attending rallies in Port Harcourt.
He said the theme underscored the relationship between press freedom and good governance, stressing that democracy depended on access to reliable information and accountability.
“Democracy protects the freedom of the press, while responsible journalism strengthens democratic institutions and keeps government connected to the people,” he said.
Oborevwori recalled the Nigerian press’s contributions to the nationalist struggle, resistance against military rule and restoration of democracy in 1999.
He said many journalists endured harassment and detention, while some paid the ultimate price in their pursuit of democratic freedoms.
He cited Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates the media to uphold its fundamental objectives and hold government accountable.
The governor said press freedom must be accompanied by professional responsibility, adding that criticism must remain grounded in verified facts.
He warned that social media had increased access to information but also facilitated the spread of false reports, hate speech and misinformation.
He urged journalists to resist pressure to break news at the expense of accuracy and professional standards.
“Public trust is the foundation of journalism. Once lost, it is difficult to regain,” he said.
On government-media relations, Oborevwori said democratic governance required commitment from both sides, urging authorities to protect press freedom and promote transparency.
He cautioned government officials against interpreting every critical report as hostility, saying constructive criticism could improve service delivery.
“Fair criticism can expose gaps, correct mistakes and help improve service delivery,” he said.
Highlighting his administration’s experience in Delta, Oborevwori described the media as an important development partner.
He reaffirmed his commitment to press freedom and open communication, saying these aligned with his administration’s M.O.R.E agenda.
The agenda focuses on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
“Our developmental agenda goes beyond building bridges and roads. It includes rural connectivity, quality education, accessible healthcare and economic opportunities to ensure no community is left behind,” he said.
The governor congratulated the honourees, describing them as professionals who 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 was essential as Nigeria approached another crucial general election.
He urged journalists to inform without inflaming tensions and resist attempts to weaponise information for political advantage.
NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya, said Oborevwori was selected as Special Guest of Honour because journalists had not faced recorded intimidation, harassment or arrest under his administration.
Yahya commended the governor’s developmental projects and support for vulnerable women and children.
He also appealed to the Federal Government to approve an improved salary structure for journalists, particularly those working in state-owned media organisations.
NAN reports that Oborevwori received the Media Friendly Governor of the Year award at the ceremony.
Speaking on behalf of other awardees, Tabitha Sani-Kangiwa and other media icons urged younger journalists to embrace the profession, build relationships and prioritise dedication over quick financial gains.
They stressed that journalism remained a public trust.
