From Owen Akenzua, Asaba
Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has charged journalists to combat fake news and misinformation by fact-checking for the truth before going to press.
Oborevwori gave the charge on Monday at the Press Week organised by the state chapter of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, in Asaba, with the theme: ‘Imperative of Proper Leadership Recruitment Process for Good Governance.’
The governor disclosed that his administration is comprehensively addressing development challenges through its ‘MORE Agenda’.
Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Oborevwori said journalists should consistently sustain the effort to find out the truth before going to press, saying it has become essential as more people could be inclined to listen or read negative reports without bothering about their correct versions.
He commended journalists in the state for the cordial relationship they had accorded his administration and for organising the Press Week which would afford them the opportunity to arm themselves with the necessary knowledge in discharging their duties.
“As an administration, we will like to commend journalists for the cordial relationship between us. We have related in a very peaceful way and it is my sincere hope that, going forward, the relationship will be marked by greater understanding and mutual respect.
“It is in the interest of journalists to toe the line of preserving the country, as the stability of the state and nation will always be at the centre of your practice.
“As a government, we are operating an open door policy. There are several layers of officials ready and willing to throw light on grey areas in fulfilling the ‘MORE Agenda’ that we have set for ourselves,” he said.
Earlier, the State Chairman of NUJ, Churchill Oyowe said the theme of the 2024 Press Week underscores the critical need for transparent and credible electoral processes, believing that such process would ensure that those who occupy political positions are truly representatives of the people.
