Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged journalists to maintain accuracy, fairness and high professional standards in their coverage of political activities as Nigeria prepares for 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, where he was honoured with the Media Friendly Governor of the Year award.
The ceremony, held under the theme “Strengthening Democracy through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance”, recognised media professionals whose work has contributed to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting accountability.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Johnson Erijo, Oborevwori described the event as timely, noting that political activities were gradually gathering momentum ahead of the next general elections.
He said the theme highlighted the close relationship between press freedom, responsible reporting and good governance, stressing that democracy depends on citizens having access to reliable information and the ability to hold those in power accountable.
“Democracy protects the freedom of the press, while responsible journalism strengthens democratic institutions and keeps government connected to the people,” he said.
The governor recalled the important role Nigerian journalists played during the country’s struggle for independence, the fight against military rule and the return to democratic governance in 1999. He noted that many media practitioners faced intimidation, harassment and detention, while some lost their lives defending democratic freedoms.
He also drew attention to Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution, which assigns the media the responsibility of monitoring governance and holding public officials accountable.
However, Oborevwori warned that press freedom must be accompanied by professional discipline. He said journalists should ensure that reports and criticism of government institutions are supported by verified facts, particularly at a time when misinformation, hate speech and fabricated stories are spreading rapidly across social media.
He cautioned media practitioners against allowing the pressure to publish breaking news ahead of competitors to compromise accuracy and credibility.
“Public trust is the foundation of journalism. Once lost, it is difficult to regain,” he said.
Addressing the relationship between government and the media, the governor said both institutions had important roles to play in protecting democracy. He urged public officials to respect press freedom, promote transparency and avoid viewing every critical report as an attempt to undermine their administration.
According to him, constructive criticism should be welcomed because it can expose weaknesses, help governments correct mistakes and improve the delivery of public services.
“Fair criticism can expose gaps, correct mistakes and help improve service delivery,” he said.
Speaking on his administration’s relationship with journalists in Delta State, Oborevwori described the media as an important partner in the state’s development. He reaffirmed his commitment to press freedom and open communication, saying these values were consistent with his administration’s M.O.R.E agenda, which focuses on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
He explained that his government’s development plans went beyond the construction of roads and bridges to include improved rural connectivity, quality education, accessible healthcare and wider economic opportunities for residents.
Earlier, former NUJ President and Chairman of the occasion, Chris Isiguzo, stressed that responsible journalism would be especially important as the country approaches another election year.
He urged journalists to provide the public with credible information without creating unnecessary tension or allowing political interests to influence their work. He also warned against attempts by politicians to manipulate information for electoral advantage.
The NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya, explained that Oborevwori was selected as Special Guest of Honour because, according to him, there had been no recorded cases of journalists being intimidated, harassed or arrested under the governor’s administration.
Yahya also praised the governor’s development efforts and support for vulnerable women and children. He used the occasion to appeal to the Federal Government to introduce an improved salary structure for journalists, particularly those working in state owned media organisations.
Speaking on behalf of fellow award recipients, Tabitha Sani Kangiwa and other media icons encouraged younger journalists to remain committed to the profession, build meaningful professional relationships and place service above the pursuit of quick financial rewards.
They reminded practitioners that journalism is a public trust that demands integrity, dedication and a strong sense of responsibility.
